Robbie Savage has been appointed as manager of Forest Green, replacing Steve Cotterill at the National League side.
The former Manchester United youngster resigned from his role as head coach of Macclesfield FC – a club he part owns and acted as a director up until last week – having secured promotion to the National League North last term.
The 50-year-old, who made 356 Premier League appearances for the likes of Leicester City, Birmingham City and Derby County during his playing days, is believed to be close friends with Forest Green director of football Mark Bowen, his former Wales international team-mate.
Savage, whose resignation as Macclesfield FC director paved the way for his appointment, looked forward to his chance to create an ‘an attacking brand of football’ in their pursuit of returning to the Football League.
‘I want a fast, exciting style but the most important thing is to win games,’ he told the club’s website.
His predecessor Cotterill was dismissed last week after Forest Green failed to achieve promotion through the National League play-offs. Despite finishing third, they were dumped out by Southend on penalties and missed out on a place at Wembley.
Robbie Savage has been named as manager of Forest Green, replacing sacked Steve Cotterill
Chairman Dale Vince is determined to see his side return to the Football League following their relegation from League Two in 2024 – and believes the ex-Man United man can get them there
Cotterill was dismissed after Forest Green Rovers failed to achieve promotion to League Two
According to The Mirror, Savage rejected offers from higher up the pyramid to take charge of the National League outfit.
He signed a new two-year contract with Macclesfield just last month, having steered his side to promotion with a whopping 109 points, 26 clear of second place.
Speaking after penning his extension, he said: ‘It’s a club that’s close to my heart.
‘What myself and Rob and the volunteers, the staff have all achieved: three promotions in four years, an FA trophy semi-final, record-breaking season last year.
‘You know interest from other clubs, as Rob has alluded to, I just wanted to show everybody my commitment to this football club.
‘It’s my future. For the next couple of years, it’s going to be here. It’s a project. It’s a journey. I can’t leave that dressing room.
‘The lads have been spectacular, been amazing. Togetherness has been incredible. So I’m on that journey with them.’
Meanwhile, Wayne Rooney, who was slated to replace Savage at Macclesfield FC has turned down an offer to manage Macclesfield, according to the PA.
