The short version
- Robbie Savage has been named the new manager of Peterborough United, replacing Luke Williams while the club sits near the bottom of League One.
- Savage’s managerial career has advanced quickly from seventh-tier Macclesfield FC to National League side Forest Green Rovers before this EFL appointment.
- The former player plans to maintain his media duties with BBC Radio 5 Live while implementing a high-intensity, attacking tactical approach at Peterborough.
Peterborough United has appointed Robbie Savage as its new head coach, marking a significant shift in leadership for the League One club. The decision comes as the team struggles near the bottom of the table, seeking to reverse recent poor form and stabilize their season. Savage replaces Luke Williams, bringing with him a reputation for high-energy management and a distinctive personality that club officials believe can reinvigorate the squad.
The appointment represents a remarkable acceleration in Savage’s managerial career. Just over two years ago, he began his coaching journey at Macclesfield FC, a seventh-tier side in the Northern Premier League Premier Division. During his single season there, he led the team to promotion with a record of 109 goals scored and 109 points accumulated. This success paved the way for his move to Forest Green Rovers in July 2025, where he guided the National League side to the play-offs before their elimination by Boreham Wood.
At Peterborough, Savage faces immediate pressure to improve results while the club remains second from the bottom of League One. Chairman Darragh MacAnthony expressed enthusiasm about the hire, citing Savage’s character and work ethic as essential for restoring confidence within the talented but underperforming squad. The board was reportedly impressed by Savage’s hunger to address existing issues and his vision for the team’s future direction.
Tactically, Savage is known for favoring an entertaining and attacking style of play. He has previously stated a preference for high-scoring victories over narrow wins, suggesting that Peterborough supporters can expect open matches under his guidance. Reports from his time at Forest Green indicate a preference for a 4-2-3-1 formation, which contributed to an increase in goals scored during his full season there, though it also led to more goals conceded.
Beyond tactics, Savage’s approach emphasizes strong connections with supporters and active engagement on the touchline. He is described as energetic during matches, often keeping team talks brief and focusing on maintaining high intensity throughout games. His willingness to interact with fans and address results openly has been noted as a positive aspect of his tenure at previous clubs, offering a contrast to more reserved managerial styles.
The transition may require patience from the club’s leadership and fanbase. With the January transfer window still months away, Savage will need to work with the current roster while potentially making strategic adjustments. His history of frequent player acquisitions, often involving loans or signings from lower levels, suggests a willingness to experiment with squad composition to find the right fit for his system.
Savage’s rapid ascent through the football ranks—from non-league management to an EFL position in just over two years—highlights his growing influence in the sport. His ability to secure promotion at Macclesfield and reach the play-offs at Forest Green demonstrates a capacity to deliver results, even if consistency remains a challenge. The club hopes this momentum will translate into improved performance in League One.
In addition to his managerial duties, Savage will continue his role as a co-host on BBC Radio 5 Live’s football phone-in show, 606. This dual commitment allows him to maintain his media presence while focusing on the team’s development. His son Charlie also plays in League One, adding a personal dimension to his professional responsibilities at this level.
Supporters of Savage’s previous clubs have praised his openness and honesty, noting that he fronts up to both good and bad results. While some fans speculated about challenges in trusting players brought in from lower divisions, the overall sentiment has been positive regarding the energy and quality of football played under his guidance. Peterborough fans now look to see if this approach can yield similar benefits at a higher competitive level.
The coming months will be critical for Savage as he implements his philosophy and attempts to lift Peterborough out of the relegation zone. With no immediate access to new signings until the winter window, his ability to maximize the potential of the current squad will be tested. The club’s leadership remains confident that his relentless work ethic and attacking mindset provide the best path forward for a team in need of direction.
Sources behind this briefing
Go to the original reporting
- BBC Sport↗What can Peterborough fans expect from 'relentless' Savage?
