At Lincoln, Huddersfield and Pompey, the Fratton chief welcomed starlets such as Emile Smith Rowe and Miguel Azeez from Arsenal – and Trevor Chalobah from Chelsea.
But who could the 43-year-old turn to next as he plots a promotion push at PO4 next term?
We’ve examined Transfermarkt.com’s stats from the 2021-22 PL2 and U18 Premier League campaigns to see who could be making the step into senior football next season.
There could be loan deals to be made, or even a permanent transfer or two, as the rising stars from the Premier League and Championship look to break free from youth football.
Here’s what we found out.
9. Oliver Hammond - Nottingham Forest
The 19-year-old has made 20 appearances for the under-23s this season and scored six goals and registered a single assist. Picture: Matthew Lewis/Getty Images Photo: Matthew Lewis
10. Josh Adam - Manchester City
Adam could be the next on the conveyor belt of hot prospects from Manchester City after his jaw dropping performances in the U18 Premier League. In 22 appearances he registered 11 assists and scored eight goals. Picture: Nick Taylor/Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images Photo: Nick Taylor/Liverpool FC
11. Zak Swanson - Arsenal
After three consecutive seasons in the under-23s, Swanson is now ready for senior football. The 21-year-old right-back has registered two assists and scored twice this season, proving he is effective in both defence and attack. Picture: Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images Photo: Stuart MacFarlane
12. Conor Bradley - Liverpool
Across Bardley's first full season in the PL2 he registered eight assists and scored three goals from right-back. He also helped the Reads youngsters lift the Lancashire Senior Cup. Picture: Nick Taylor/Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images Photo: Nick Taylor/Liverpool FC