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Danny Cowley has joked he’s put a fit Louis Thompson and Tom Lowery at the top of his Christmas wish list this year.

With the big day just under two weeks away, his hopes could become reality after he hinted of potential imminent returns for the injured duo.

The pair have been major absentees in recent months having been sidelined with their respective issues.

Thompson has faced an extended period on the treatment table after he broke his leg against Bristol Rovers in August.

The 27-year-old returned to full training this week for the first time in four months, marking the latest step in his comeback.

There is belief within the Blues camp that the former Norwich man could be available for the Boxing Day trip to Exeter.

Meanwhile, the situation of midfield partner Lowery has been kept under wraps by Cowley, after he suffered a further set-back last month.

Following a 30-minute stint against Hereford in the FA Cup in November, the 24-year-old picked up a recurrence of his hamstring injury, which was first picked up against Plymouth in October.

Danny Cowley has joked he wants a fit Tom Lowery and Louis Thompson at the top of his list this Christmas.

The Blues boss was more coy over the ex-Crewe man but last week insisted he was making good progress on his return.

With the Fratton faithful hopeful the duo can play a part before the new year, Cowley has also voiced his hopes of potential returns for the injured pair in the coming weeks.

He told The News: ‘We had 24 on the grass today (Monday), which was a real positive.

‘We are desperate to have Louis and Tom back with Christmas just around the corner.

‘I don’t do Christmas lists any more but if I was to, having those two fit and available would be right at the top.

‘We are certainly looking forward to them being back in the group because it’s been obvious.

‘Like all key players, you are going to miss them, but those two have been a real loss.’

It marks the latest major boost for the Blues after Joe Morrell returned from the World Cup.

His availability will see the strain on Marlon Pack, Jay Mingi and Ryan Tunnicliffe eased after being the only options in recent months.

Ahead of Pompey’s Papa John’s Trophy tie against Stevenage tonight, Michael Jacobs is also set to return to the fray.

The winger has been sidelined with a hamstring issue he picked up against Charlton in October.

Portsmouth boss Danny Cowley puts key duo's imminent return from injury at the top of Christmas wish list