Forest Green Rovers are expected to move quickly to appoint a new manager, with former Manchester United striker and Wales international Mark Hughes emerging as a leading contender for the vacancy.
The managerial position became available after Robbie Savage left the club to speak to League One strugglers Peterborough United. Forest Green chairman Dale Vince confirmed that Savage had been given permission to discuss the role with Peterborough.
Savage’s departure followed a turbulent period for the Nailsworth club, which must now identify his successor. Hughes is understood to be among the names being considered by Forest Green, with his existing relationship with sporting director Mark Bowen potentially relevant to the appointment process.
Hughes’ management experience
Hughes, 62, has managed several clubs during a long career in football management. His previous positions have included Blackburn Rovers, Manchester City, Fulham, Queens Park Rangers, Stoke City and Southampton.
He left Carlisle by mutual consent at the end of last season. During his time there, Carlisle finished third in the Enterprise National League with 95 points and reached the play-offs.
Forest Green’s interest in Hughes would bring an experienced manager to the club at a time when the team is seeking stability. His career includes work in the Premier League as well as experience across the English football pyramid.
Existing link with Mark Bowen
Hughes is well known to Forest Green sporting director Mark Bowen. The pair worked together at Manchester City, Stoke City, Southampton, Blackburn Rovers, Fulham and Queens Park Rangers, as well as with Wales, where Bowen served as Hughes’ assistant.
That professional connection is one of the factors linking Hughes with the vacancy, although Forest Green had not announced an appointment in the supplied report.
Hughes also has a distinguished playing background. He represented Manchester United, Chelsea, Southampton, Everton and Blackburn during his career, and won 72 caps for Wales.
Why Robbie Savage left
Vince said Savage wanted to leave Forest Green for personal reasons, and that the club understood and respected his decision. The move followed confirmation that Savage had been offered the Peterborough United manager’s job.
Forest Green’s next step is expected to be the appointment of a successor, with Hughes currently understood to be high on the club’s list of potential candidates. No final decision was reported in the source material.
