Last season, Portsmouth signed Gavin Baznou on loan from Manchester City and Hayden Carter from Blackburn Rovers, both of whom put in impressive performances in Pompey colours.
This summer, Cowley has again put his faith in loan signings in the form of Tottenham Hotspur striker Dane Scarlett and Josh Griffiths from West Bromwich Albion.
Scarlett and Griffiths have established themselves as regulars in the Portsmouth starting line-up, with the former scoring four goals in 12 games and later maintaining five clean sheets in eleven outings.
Cowley insisted that he understands that fans want the club to sign players with the potential of Scarlett, Griffiths, Baznu and Carter on permanent deals, but is clear that it is impossible for Portsmouth to acquire the services of talented young players from top clubs without loan moves.
However, the Portsmouth boss pointed out that the fact that big clubs are trusting his side with the development of young players is a positive sign.
“The loan system is not for everyone, supporters naturally always like players to be the club’s own”, Cowley told The News.
“But the reality is loans allow us to sign the likes of Gavin Bazunu, Josh Griffiths, Dane Scarlett and Hayden Carter.
“We are not in a position to get them permanently, but the fact their parent clubs are willing to trust us with their development is a positive – and it’s great to be able to work with these young players.”
Portsmouth are currently in second place in the League One table and next will take on league leaders Ipswich Town on 1st October.
If the club can secure promotion then they could become an even more attractive destination for young talents.
