Howson slotted home his first goal for the club since moving from Leeds in January just before the break to cancel out Nikica Jelavic's 22nd minute opener.

The Canaries looked to be heading for defeat when Jelavic pounced again in the second half but Holt's 15th goal of the season 14 minutes from time secured a share of the spoils.

Speaking to Sky Sports after the game Lambert was full of praise for the duo, who have played their part in a memorable season for Norwich.

"When Grant plays like that he is an absolute handful," said the Scot.

"He has been a massive player for us not just this year but for the last three years.

"He is a brilliant finisher, he puts the ball in the net which is the hardest thing to do.

Outstanding

"I thought Howson put in as good a midfield performance as I have I seen, his passing was outstanding, with left and right foot. At times he passed it like Iniesta.

"He's an all-rounder and I'm delighted with his contribution.

"We have a 'proper' player on our hands."

The battling draw ensured that Norwich reached 40 points for the season, the symbolic points tally that historically ensures safety in the Premier League.

It is a fine achievement for Lambert's men, given they were in League One just three seasons ago.

Though not openly agreeing that City are definitely safe, Lambert admitted his side's progress over the past few years was a great source of pride.

"It is just incredible what has happened to the football club over the past three years," he added.

"We were bottom of League One three years ago.

"They are brilliant the lads, we have a lot of character and I'm really proud of them.

"Today I thought they were excellent again.

"We saw the goal go against us early on but we came back really strongly, we were up against it against a really top side who have been in brilliant form of late.

"But I thought the effort, energy and enthusiasm for the game was outstanding."