Peterborough United have appointed Robbie Savage as their new manager on a long-term contract believed to run for three-and-a-half years. The former Wales international arrives from Forest Green Rovers, a National League side, to take charge of a Posh squad sitting 23rd in League One with just five points from eight games.
Chairman Darragh MacAnthony described the appointment as a necessary injection of energy. "Excitement is the word I can use to describe the appointment of Robbie Savage as our new manager," MacAnthony said. "A word I personally haven’t used about our football club for too long." Savage, who took his first steps in management with Macclesfield Town before moving to Forest Green, was reportedly chosen ahead of other candidates including Matt Bloomfield and Karl Robinson.
A high-stakes philosophy
Savage's arrival follows the dismissal of Luke Williams after a home defeat to Doncaster Rovers on September 19th. The 51-year-old inherits a team with a recent record of two wins, one draw and two losses, and a worrying defensive record of 13 goals conceded. He immediately outlined his attacking intentions. "I based my football philosophy at previous clubs on the way that Peterborough play," Savage said. "I love entertaining, attacking football, that is my belief. I would rather win games 5-4 than 1-0."
His style is a clear shift, favouring fast, direct football over patient possession. Last season, his Forest Green side scored 82 goals in 46 league games, achieving a near 50% win rate. He will work with the existing coaching staff, having met the squad ahead of Tuesday's 4-1 Jersey Mike's Trophy win over Ipswich Town Under-21s.
Context and challenge
The appointment is viewed as a significant gamble. Savage's high-profile media presence and unproven pedigree at this level bring intense scrutiny, with failure potentially risking the club's first drop to League Two since 2008. However, MacAnthony and the board were convinced by his passion and plan to revive confidence in a squad they believe is talented. The chairman stated Savage's "personality, character and mindset" were exactly what the club needed.
Peterborough's immediate focus turns to the Championship, with a trip to face 14th-placed Leicester City on October 10th. Fans can check the full schedule on our fixtures page. Savage's first task is to organise a defence that has kept just one clean sheet in the league this season, while unlocking an attack that has netted only four times. The new manager's reign begins in earnest at the King Power Stadium this weekend.
This story first appeared at The72
