Yet the game has come at the worst possible time for Pompey amid their worrying injury situation.
The Blues boss has reported up to 10 names are currently on the treatment table - but is hopeful a few faces could be in line for a return to the squad.
Despite coming off through injury against Oxford on Tuesday, Sean Raggett (back), Ronan Curtis (dead leg) and Reeco Hackett (ankle) should all be available for the fixture.
But Cowley is adamant he will not reveal the extent of their woes in a bid to obtain any sort of advantage over their opposition.
But how will they approach the latest challenge against Shrewsbury?
Of course, only the head coach and his backroom staff know their current problems as he keeps his cards close to his chest.
But, here’s how we believe Pompey could line-up against the Salop on Saturday afternoon.
9. LW: Reeco Hackett
The winger was handed his third league start of the campaign on Tuesday but was surprisingly chosen ahead of Dale. Hackett put on a man-of-the-match display against Oxford and has earned his place in the starting line-up against Shrewsbury. Despite being taken off in added time with a kick to the ankle, the 24-year-old is expected to be fit for Saturday and continue his place in the starting XI. Photo: Jason Brown
10. ST: Dane Scarlett
Despite being dropped against Forest Green, the Spurs loanee returned to the starting XI on Tuesday evening. In a physical game against the U’s, the youngster was unable to make much impact in the contest and was withdrawn early in the second half. If he wants to maintain a starting role, goals must be added to his game as he's failed to score his his previous seven outings. Photo: Jason Brown
11. ST: Colby Bishop
What a start this man has had to his Pompey career as he netted his ninth goal of the campaign to salvage a draw on Tuesday. Despite appearing on the score-sheet, it was a display he called ‘dreadful’ and promised Pompey fans there is more to come from him. More goals wouldn’t go a miss against Shrewsbury as the Blues look to find a winning return. Photo: Jason Brown