A huge game coming up on the back up of an embarrassing defeat away from home.
Burton were the Blues’ opponents prior to that Black Cats clash – with Cowley struggling to hide his disappointment with what had just unfolded at the Pirelli Stadium.
He, nevertheless, stuck with the same starting XI that let him down against the Brewers for the Sunderland game – and we all know what happened there!
Now, he must decide whether to use the same tactic for tonight’s game against the Tractor Boys, with the hurt experienced at Rotherham still raw.
Cowley has already indicated he may be tempted to switch back to a 4-2-3-1 formation in a bid to stem the flow of goals his side have been conceding in recent weeks – 12 in six games.
That would also match up with the formation Paul Cook is synonymous with – but evidence suggests it makes the Blues less threatening in forward areas.
As a result, Cowley certainly has a selection headache on his hands, one which hasn’t been helped by fringe players failing recent auditions to step into the first team.
But if he is persuaded to go with four at the back, how would the side look?
Well, here’s what we think he might for with...
5. Left-back - Lee Brown
Brown came in for specific criticism for his failure to prevent the cross which led to Michael Smith opening the scoring for Rotherham on Saturday. Meanwhile, little was seen of him in attack mode at the New York Stadium. Brown will be looking over his shoulder following Ogilvie's return, especially if Cowley reverts to a back four. A return to his goalscoring best would see him good, though. Photo: JPIMedia
6. Central midfield 1 - Joe Morrell
Morrell's form and influence has been growing steadily, although he did suffer a blip at Rotherham. It won't be enough to see him discarded by Cowley for this game, though. His on-off move to Ipswich in the summer will draw attention his way. He'll be desperate to show he made the right call in opting for Pompey over the Tractor Boys. Photo: JPIMedia
7. Central midfield 2 - Ryan Tunnicliffe
Like midfield team-mate Shaun Williams, Tunnicliffe struggled at Rotherham and was withdrawn from the action early. His role in Marcus Harness' goal shows what he brings to the team - but a more advanced role in midfield doesn't suit him. Cowley could be tempted to see him play alongside Morrell in a deeper role so that others can be the creative force moving forward. Photo: JPIMedia
8. Right-wing - Marcus Harness
Harness has rediscovered some of his best form in recent weeks after Danny Cowley moved him inside in a 3-5-2 formation. Could be asked to revert back to his right-wing position, though, for tonight's game. Will no doubt be able to drift inside, however, if right-back Mahlon Romeo manages to combine his attacking threat with his defensive duties. Photo: JPIMedia