Forest Green launch legal action over Savage approach

Forest Green Rovers have initiated legal proceedings against Peterborough United in response to the club's pursuit of their former manager, Robbie Savage. The Welshman departed Forest Green in mid-October to assume the managerial role at League One side Peterborough. Initially, Dale Vince, the owner of Forest Green, blocked discussions between Savage and Peterborough. However, Vince later acceded to the request after Savage was approached directly by the Peterborough United board.

Vince underscored the club's stance in a brief video on social media, asserting that Forest Green had commenced a legal process pertaining to the "tapping up" of their manager, Savage. Peterborough United declined to comment on the legal action when approached by BBC Sport, but had previously contended that their approach to Savage was not unlawful.

Savage, who led Forest Green to the play-offs during his time with the club, departed on October 2nd, leaving the team in 13th position after 11 matches. Vince had initially refused Peterborough United's permission to speak with Savage but subsequently relented after Savage was approached directly by the Peterborough board.

Peterborough United has been subject to criticism for their actions. Vince recounted the events 10 days after Savage's appointment, stating that the club had stated they wished to speak with the manager, Forest Green declined, and Peterborough subsequently contacted Savage. Vince classified this as an "illegal approach." Darren MacAnthony, the chairman of Peterborough United, refuted these allegations on X, declaring that the procedure to appoint a new manager was "100% correct and proper, following all the rules."

Since joining Peterborough, Savage's managerial record includes two wins, two draws, and two losses across all competitions.