<p>Signed from Blackpool in February 2012, Mark Howard joined on a free transfer signing a two and a half year contract after impressing during a two week trial.</p><br />
<p>Howard came in as cover for Steve Simonsen and found his opportunities limited, not making a first-team appearance for the remainder of that season.</p><br />
<p>Finally making his debut against Burton Albion in the League Cup, Howard became the first choice goalkeeper having replaced the outgoing Simonsen. Howard's joy was to be short lived though, picking up a thigh injury in the 11th minute of a clash with Leyton Orient at the beginning of October, he was to be replaced by youngster George Long, who would take his opportunity to become the regular stopper.</p><br />
<p> Howard made only a handful of appearances until a recall by then Blades manager Nigel Clough for an FA Cup clash with Fulham in the capital. Keeping a clean sheet in a good win, Howard kept his place and remained virtually ever present.</p>
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