Forest Green Rovers could turn to an experienced Football League manager—or make another unconventional appointment—as the club searches for the successor to Robbie Savage.
With the New Lawn hierarchy understood to be working through applications, there could be greater clarity on the next manager before Rovers return to action against Hartlepool this weekend. The leading possibilities include a bookmakers’ favourite, two former Premier League figures and a coaching partnership with strong Forest Green connections.
Stuart Maynard the early favourite
Stuart Maynard is identified as the leading contender after guiding York City to League Two. His success at that level is presented as evidence that he may now be ready to pursue an opportunity further up the football pyramid.
Maynard is also viewed as someone who may be aiming beyond the National League rather than simply taking the next available job at that level. His work with York has placed him on the radar of clubs with higher ambitions, although the article suggests Forest Green may face competition for his services.
Why Mark Hughes and Ian Holloway could appeal
Mark Hughes is a natural name to associate with the vacancy because of his previous professional relationship with Forest Green sporting director Mark Bowen. The pair worked together at Manchester City, Stoke City and Blackburn Rovers.
Hughes would bring considerable profile to the role, but the former Manchester United player is currently described as taking a break from football after leaving Carlisle United. His appointment would nevertheless attract attention across the game.
Ian Holloway would represent a more eye-catching option. The current Swindon Town manager has experience ranging from the Premier League to League Two and is described as having detailed knowledge of the lower leagues.
His outspoken personality and ability to operate under pressure would fit Forest Green’s history of appointing larger-than-life characters. Holloway’s recent viral pre-match press conference comments also mean a move would generate significant media interest, although he remains focused on trying to succeed at Swindon.
Could Forest Green choose an unconventional partnership?
Graham Deakin and Alex Meechan are presented as another possible route. The pair are currently performing strongly with Northern Premier League club Stafford Rangers, while Meechan has a particularly strong connection with Forest Green as a former club legend.
Meechan played in the Football League for both Swindon Town and Bristol City before moving into management. He later gained experience as Barrow manager and served as assistant manager at AFC Telford.
A joint appointment would be unconventional, but that would be consistent with Forest Green’s willingness to take a different path. The club’s entrance is named “Another Way”, a detail that underlines the possibility of a left-field decision as the search continues.