It’s been a busy summer for the Pompey head coach – and with the transfer window now closed, focus now concentrates on getting the most out of the squad he can rightly call his own.
He reported a clean bill of health when The News visiting the training ground yesterday.
But what does he do with so many options now available to him?
The chances are Cowley will resist the urge to through Arsenal loanee Miguel Azeez straight into the starting XI for Saturday’s trip to MK Dons.
But he might be tempted to freshen one or two other positions up as he looks go put the league defeat to Wigan and Tuesday’s Papa John’s Trophy loss to AFC Wimbledon behind him.
Here’s how we think Pompey could line up at Stadium MK...
5. Left-back - Lee Brown
Connor Ogilvie is going to have to be patience before he wrestles the left-back spot off Brown. Rarely lets Pompey down, while his newly discovered goalscoring threat - along with his partnership with Ronan Curtis down the left - makes him a key asset when the Blues are on the attack. Photo: JPIMedia
6. Central Midfield - Ryan Tunnicliffe
Played further forward against Wigan as Danny Cowley attempted to build on his three assists since the season began. Like the rest of the team at the DW Stadium, Tunnicliffe lost his way a bit in the second half. However, the batteries will have been recharged since then and the former Luton man will be raring to go again. Photo: JPIMedia
7. Central midfield - Shaun Williams
His reliable presence in front of Pompey's back four is key. Will have another crucial role to play on Saturday as the main destructor-in-chief of MK Dons' passing game and the conduit to enable the Blues to force their own passing style on the hosts. Photo: JPIMedia
8. Central-midfield - Joe Morrell
Danny Cowley might be tempted to start with Morrell on the bench given two 90-minute appearances for Wales in recent days. However, Morrell is keen to kick on after a quiet start to life at Pompey. And with the midfielder one of Cowley's top targets this summer, his drive and presence are clearly something the head coach sees as vital to the team. Photo: JPIMedia