The ex-Cardiff midfielder returned to his boyhood club to pen a two-year deal at Fratton Park.
Yet, that deal remains the only signing for the Blues to date.
Trio Kieron Freeman, Marcus Harness and Ronan Curtis have all been linked with moves away this summer but remain part of the group as Pompey up their preparations for the new season.
Pompey make the annual trip to Westleigh Park on Saturday for their first pre-season fixture but what would their strongest side look like if the season started tomorrow?
We’ve taken a look at the best starting XI Cowley could name if that was the case.
Here’s how we think they would line up.
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From left: Dan Gifford, Ronan Curtis, Alex Bass, Marlon Pack. Photo: JPIMedia
. GK: Alex Bass
The academy graduate remains the only senior goalkeeper at Fratton Park after Gavin Bazunu’s loan came to an end. The 23-year-old is set to face further competition for the number one jersey, though, with Josh Griffiths reportedly closing in on a move. However, Bass currently remains the first choice between the sticks. Photo: Dennis Goodwin
5. LB: Connor Ogilvie
The 26-year-old gets the nod ahead of Denver Hume at left-back after his impressive second half of the season performances. The 26-year-old starred both at centre-back, left-back and even left wing-back - totaling 41 outings in his first season with the Blues. Ogilvie will face strong competition for his place in the starting XI with the former Sunderland defender, which will prove to be an intriguing battle between the pair. Photo: Paul Thompson
6. CM: Joe Morrell
Although the Welsh midfielder is currently out injured with a broken toe, he finds himself in the starting XI in the Blues’ strongest side. The 25-year-old made 37 outings in his first season at Fratton Park and will remain an important figure in the Blues’ promotion charge next term. Photo: Jason Brown
7. CM: Marlon Pack
Pack remains the only new signing this summer after he returned to his boyhood club following his departure from Cardiff. A player that oozes Championship quality walks straight into the Blues’ strongest XI and is keen to build a strong partnership with ex-Bristol City team-mate Joe Morrell in the middle of the park. Photo: Portsmouth FC
8. RM: Marcus Harness
It appears highly-unlikely that Marcus Harness will still be at Fratton Park by the end of the transfer window. The News understands that Swansea are set to step up their interest in the winger, who had a year-long option triggered by the Blues at the end of the season. Despite being linked with a move away, the 26-year-old finds himself in the strong XI still at the club. Photo: Jason Brown