Robbie Savage Reflects on Coaching Journey Ahead of FA Cup Match
Robbie Savage has expressed regret over participating in Strictly Come Dancing before fully establishing his coaching career, fearing it contributed to the perception of him as "another celebrity manager."
The Forest Green Rovers manager is preparing for his first FA Cup first-round appearance as a head coach, with his team set to face sixth-tier Worthing on Monday at 19:30 BST.
Savage, a former Wales midfielder who competed on the popular BBC show in 2011 shortly after retiring from professional football, has led Rovers to a commendable second place in the National League.
Having been appointed in July following a successful stint at Macclesfield, Savage acknowledges that his media presence often overshadows his coaching abilities. He is set to return to the public eye for the final match of the fourth qualifying round.
Reflecting on his past, Savage stated, "Looking back now, would I have done Strictly before I was a manager? Probably not - that would probably have come after." He added, "I’m just a normal manager - an inexperienced manager giving it his best with a great staff. I’m just a passionate man who cares about whichever club he’s at." He emphasized that he is not merely a celebrity manager, but rather a dedicated individual who loves football and has earned his place in coaching.
Embracing the Eco-Friendly Culture
Forest Green Rovers, based in Nailsworth, Gloucestershire, is known for its eco-friendly initiatives under the leadership of green energy entrepreneur Dale Vince, who took over the club in 2010. The club, which has a population of less than 6,000, enjoyed seven seasons in the English Football League before facing relegation in the 2024-25 season and losing in last season's play-off semi-final.
Vince has elevated the club's profile by implementing sustainable practices, including making Rovers an all-vegan team and earning recognition from the United Nations as the world’s first carbon-neutral football club in 2018.
Savage's son, Charlie, who has since joined Reading and represented Wales, spent part of the 2022-23 season on loan at Forest Green from Manchester United. Savage praised Vince, stating, "Dale’s brilliant. We get on so well. He cares. The food’s high in protein, it’s high in fibre. It’s a brilliant football club run by passionate, caring people who want you to do well, so I’ve embraced everything." He noted that Vince hired him based on his merits as a player and manager, rather than his celebrity status.
From Media to Management
In his first 14 league matches with Forest Green, Savage has achieved eight wins and only one loss. He likened the camaraderie among his players and staff to the rapport he shares with former England striker Chris Sutton while co-hosting the BBC Radio 5 Live football phone-in show, 606. "Myself and Chris have a great camaraderie and togetherness, and that’s what I’ve got with my players and staff," he said, praising the warmth and friendliness of the Cotswolds community.
Despite the challenges of managing away from family, Savage expressed his lifelong passion for football, stating, "I’m a football person who’s been addicted to, and obsessed with, football all his life. I don’t fear failure - never have." He recalled a conversation with his sons, who encouraged him to take the coaching job, saying, "What’s the worst that can happen? You can get the sack, but give it your best shot."
The Significance of the FA Cup
Looking ahead to Monday’s match, Worthing sits 16th in the National League South and will be playing their first game since reappointing manager Adam Hinshelwood, who previously led the team to the FA Cup first round and the play-off final during his earlier tenure from 2017-24.
While Savage is aware of Worthing's position, he has chosen not to focus extensively on their tactics, believing that Rovers have been overly concerned with their opponents during a recent run of two draws and a defeat at home to Rochdale on October 4. Savage remarked, "The [TNT Sports] cameras are there because everybody thinks it’s going to be an upset. I understand that because I played in the early stages of the competition with Crewe Alexandra, who I joined in 1994 after starting my career at Manchester United." He emphasized the importance of focusing on his own team's performance, stating, "It’s all about us."
The draw for the first round proper will take place shortly before kick-off at the 4,000-capacity Sussex Transport Community Stadium. Savage does not anticipate the artificial pitch to be a disadvantage, asserting, "It’s the same for both sides and you can play fantastic football on it. No excuses. If we get beaten by Worthing, I’m not going to blame the surface."