WAITING GAME
No Cowley announcement - but no fear over 11th-hour hitch
THE WAIT is continuing for Danny Cowley’s Pompey stewardship to begin.
But edgy Blues fans have no reason to fear an 11th hour collapse in his arrival as Kenny Jackett’s successor.
The Fratton faithful yesterday endured a day of waiting for Cowley to be announced as the new man at the helm until the end of the season.
The News understands there are no undue concerns or late hitches behind the deal not yet being confirmed, however, and he will be expected to be in charge to face Ipswich Town in League One tomorrow.
That’s an absolute priority for Pompey, who know they can ill afford to have games taking place with no clear leadership and uncertainty surrounding the first team.
There’s certainly no issue on Cowley’s part over the terms of the agreement, after he took the decision to come to the club on a shortterm basis.
That indicated this move is all about the opportunity for the Londoner, rather than finance being a motivating factor.
Cowley yesterday travelled down to the city, with previous negotiations and meetings taking place by phone and video calls.
The 42-year-old had hoped to meet the players and take training, with such a quick turnaround before facing Paul Cook’s side at Fratton Park.
Covid protocols put a spanner in the works, however, and meant the former Huddersfield and Lincoln boss had to wait to do so.
In the event, it was Jackett’s assistant, Joe Gallen, and first-team coach, Jake Wigley, who took the session at the club’s Roko base.
Gallen has publicly stated he expects to depart after Jackett’s sacking on Sunday after four seasons at the helm.
It’s understood the 48-yearold will be asked to stay on for continuity, however, and work with Cowley and his brother Nicky.
The logistics of announcing the Pompey manager-inwaiting’s arrival meant it was more practical to be confirmed today.
The club’s media department are required to conduct their interviews, organise photos and make plans for his official unveiling which aren’t necessarily suited to being carried out at night.
Cowley, of course, will be speaking to the media via video call when his arrival is confirmed, negating the need for the club to set up an official press conference.