There’s been a stack of names linked with the Fratton Park hot seat since Cowley’s dismissal nine days ago.
But who really fits the bill and chimes with the kind of profile are looking to make?
Who are the men who can take on the weight of expectation of delivering success at PO4.
The News has had its ear to the ground – and here the information we’ve picked up over the names in the frame.
5. Robbie Keane
Definitely represents the glamour appointment on the list of contenders to become next Pompey boss. Weekend reports suggested Keane had applied for the position as he looks to take the next step in his coaching career. Has taken on assistant manager roles with Republic of Ireland and then Middlesbrough and is currently readying his next move. After a stellar career he would certainly be able to handle the pressure at Pompey. Photo: IAN KINGTON
6. Leam Richardson
Emerged as the early favourite and looked like a perfect fit for the head coach role. However, chief sports writer Neil Allen reported Richardson is out of the running. Allen stated the 43-year-old was sounded out about the position, but is waiting for what he perceives to be the right role for him. His time as Paul Cook’s No2 at PO4 and then gaining promotion at Wigan before his sacking last November had appeared to make the Leeds-born man an ideal candidate. Photo: Charlotte Tattersall
7. Ian Foster
A name which has come up in the betting in recent days - and with good reason. Foster knows the terrain at Pompey after spending the best part of two years at PO4 as Paul Cook’s first-team coach. Has since developed his standing after going into the England set-up. Was part of the Steve Cooper’s group which won the under-17 World Cup and followed that up with European success last year at under-19 level. Has worked with the likes of Phil Foden, Jadon Sancho, Conor Gallagher and Emile Smith Rowe and would certainly be a progressive appointment. Photo: Joe Pepler
8. Simon Bassey
A popular figure at Fratton Park since arriving in the summer of 2021 from Barnet, as Danny Cowley’s first-team coach. Has the support of the Blues dressing room and has managerial/coaching ambitions, no doubt. Has the kind of personality to chime with Pompey fans, but not really the experience as boss which would ideally be required. Definitely deserves a Fratton future. Photo: Shaun Botterill