Joe Gallen in frame to remain at Portsmouth under incoming Danny Cowley regime

It is understood incoming boss Danny Cowley is weighing up retaining Kenny Jackett’s former number two to aid his transition into the club.

As it stands, Cowley and his brother, Nicky, will be the only management additions once their deals are finalised.

Jackett’s existing backroom are expected to remain in place for the duration of the campaign, assisting the new arrivals.

Caretaker boss Gallen and first-team coach Jake Wigley are presently overseeing the team and were in charge for Tuesday night’s 1-0 defeat at Peterborough.

Yesterday they took training at their Copnor Road base, while the Cowleys continued negotiations over terms of their contracts.

Gallen is a popular member of staff and widely respected by the players, serving as an upbeat and personable presence around the club.

His Pompey experiences during almost four years can also prove invaluable to Cowley, particularly concerning in-depth knowledge of the existing squad.

Gallen, who has already voiced his expectations to be relieved of his duties following Jackett’s exit, would be willing to stay on at Fratton Park.

On Tuesday night after the Peterborough loss, he spoke glowingly of his time at Pompey, which began in June 2017 with his arrival alongside Jackett.

Gallen told The News at the time: ‘In our roles, these things happen and you just have to get on with it and be professional. It’s a privilege to be at this club, it always has been.

‘It is one of the best clubs I have been at, it probably is the best club I have been at in some ways. I have really enjoyed it.

‘If people above me say to take the team then I will take the team and do everything I can to get results and try my best, which is all you can do. Hopefully I will be there Saturday.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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