Cowley’s legacy continues more than three years after his departure

Danny Cowley’s impressive Fratton Park legacy continued this week, with yet another of his recruits pledging his Pompey future.

- by Neil Allen

It was July 2022 when the then-Blues head coach strengthened his right-back options by signing two within seven days.

A 21-year-old Zak Swanson arrived from Arsenal on a free transfer on the eve of the pre-season tour to San Pedro del Pinatar, joining his new team-mates out in Murcia.

Then, during the six-day Spanish stay, Joe Rafferty also became available following his release from Championship side Preston, signing upon the team’s return.

Almost four years later, Swanson has this week agreed a fresh two-year deal, putting him on track to add to his 111 appearances and six goals to date.

Another who signed in that same summer of 2022, Marlon Pack, last month penned a 12-month contract, while the club’s longest-serving player, Connor Ogilvie, last week agreed a two-year deal.

All three were signed by Cowley on free transfers and remain pivotal first-team players under John Mousinho.