Norwich City midfielder Jonny Howson has praised teammate John Ruddy's meteoric rise from the lower leagues to being called into the England squad, and hopes to follow the goalkeeper's example.

Ruddy joined Everton when he was just 18, but spent most of his career on loan at various lower league clubs before joining Norwich in 2010.

The keeper became a fixture in goal for the Canaries, helping them to promotion to the Premier League and a mid-table finish in their first season in the top flight.

This led to a place in England's Euro 2012 squad, which he ultimately missed out on through injury, but Howson believes that he still acts as an inspiration to other players at the club.

"I enjoyed it all last season and just want more. If you are looking, you only have to look at John Ruddy and what he's done," said the 24-year-old.

"He was unfortunate that he didn't actually go to the Euros with his injury he picked up in training. But he had a terrific season and was rewarded for it at the end of the season.

"Who knows? You never know what happens in football but first and foremost it's concentrating on Norwich and trying to get in the side for that first game of the season."

Howson joined the Canaries from Leeds United in January.