A full quota of players were available for him and brother Nicky to work with – a group which also included new-boys Joe Morrell and Louis Thompson.
It’s unlikely Thompson will feature just yet given the care the Blues need to provide as they attempt to get to the bottom of his recent injury worries.
Yet there’s a good chance Morrell will walk straight into the side following his involvement with Wales at the recent European Championships and the level of fitness he’s already displayed following his arrival on Monday night.
But where does Cowley fit him in, and who makes way?
Well, Pompey writer Jordan Cross has come up with a solution and a team line-up which he thinks will take the field against Crewe tomorrow.
Here’s how he believes the Blues’ starting XI and bench will look.
5. Left-back - Lee Brown
The goal machine will be out to extend his prolific run of three goals in three starts. Quite an intriguing decision for Cowley to make, but Brown would feel hard done by if he lost out to Connor Ogivlie. Photo: JPIMedia
6. Midfield - Ryan Tunnicliffe
Really stepped up for Pompey in the second half at Shrewsbury, continuing some eye-catching pre-season showings. Photo: JPIMedia
7. Central midfield - Shaun Williams
Returned at Millwall and showed how important he is to Pompey. Already feeling like one of the first names on the team-sheet. Photo: JPIMedia
8. Midfield - Joe Morrell
Pompey fans will be eager to catch their first glimpse of the midfielder. Fitness is at a good level and hard to see how Cowley will leave him out. Photo: JPIMedia