I think a few had been on the beer - Danny Cowley on very different meetings with Portsmouth fans

The new Blues boss took part in a video call with the Tony Goodall Fans’ Conference on Wednesday evening with board, executive and supporter group representation.

That was followed by a late-night visit to Gunwharf Quays which provided a very different, but nonetheless insightful experience into his new club’s fan base.

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Cowley said: ‘I went to Gunwharf Quays late on Wednesday night. I was just walking around there and I met loads of Portsmouth supporters.

‘They were so positive, so full or energy and so enthusiastic.

‘It was glad to meet them all and it was great to speak to a number of them about football.

‘I think a few of them had been on the beer, actually, but they were good fun and it was great to talk to them and feel their energy and passion for the team.

‘I think there was a real excitement about what is to come - and that absolutely energises me and Nicky.’

Despite supporters not being at games, Cowley does feel he’s beginning to establish a greater understanding of Pompey fans and what makes them tick.On the fans’ conference call, there was detailed discussions there on everything from contracts to recruitment and academy structuring for the 42-year-old to field.

And there was an insight into the savvy of Pompey fans from Cowley, with the club’s finances a subject on the table.

He added: ‘We spoke in depth and it’s great to see things from their perspective, because they’ve been more than supporters - they’ve been key stakeholders.

‘It’s part of them. The true supporter has the club ingrained in their heart and their family’s heart.

‘Ultimately, the success of the club has a reflection on them as people and how they perceive themselves.

‘That’s literally how powerful it is. Football is like a religion to them and we totally understand how significant the club is in their lives.

‘My only ambition and the team’s only ambition is to make them proud. That’s all we want - them to be proud to be Portsmouth.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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