United midfielder Jonny Howson proudly reflected on the club's FA Cup run in the wake of Wednesday's defeat at the hands of Tottenham, but was quick to admit that the club's focus remains unchanged.

United exited the competition in the fourth round at Elland Road on Wednesday after playing six games that included wins against Manchester United, Oldham, and Kettering, and a draw at Tottenham Hotspur.

"The main aim at the beginning of the season was promotion," said Jonny, pictured celebrating the opening goal at Oldham in the first round of the FA Cup. "That hasn't changed at any time and it won't change.

"What's happened in the FA Cup will stay with the players. We've had some terrific results, particularly with the performances against Spurs and the upset at Man U.

"Becks's goal at Old Trafford will stand out for me, but as I've said  our aim is to get promoted and that's what our focus is on now.

"We've had some good moments, and hopefully we can get back to where we want to be. Wednesday at a full Elland Road was where we want to be and have nights like this.

"The club was never off the map, the support has always been there, and maybe the cup run has just raised things a bit more.

United finally bowed out to Tottenham with a 3-1 defeat in front of almost 38,000 at Elland Road, but even then, there was no disgrace in defeat.

"We gave a good account of ourselves," added Jonny. "We had a few chances ourselves, but their experience took over a little bit in the second half.

"They got a bit lucky with the first goal and the third came when we were pushing. Maybe it wasn't a fair scoreline, but they deserved the win."