In a classic case of master meets apprentice, Forest Green boss Robbie Savage is champing at the bit to go toe-to-toe in the dugout with his hero Mark Hughes.
The pair are set to contest a top-of-the-table clash in the National League when Hughes’ Carlisle host Savage’s Rovers on Saturday.
Rovers sit second in the table with Carlisle hot on their heels in third, both just a point shy of leaders Rochdale. The reunion also falls on the day of Savage’s 51st birthday.
Listen to Robbie Savage’s full pre-match press conference where he discusses managing against his mentor Mark Hughes, Carlisle test, FA Cup progress and facing Jack Wilshire’s Luton Town, Harvey Bunker’s cameo, birthday plans and all the team and injury news ahead of Saturday.
The two Welshmen share a long and storied connection. Savage was Hughes’ first signing at Blackburn and he also managed the all-action midfielder for Wales from 1999 to 2004.
“It’s surreal, really,” Savage admitted ahead of the clash. “Mark was someone I looked up to not just as a player, but as a leader – I actually get quite shy when I’m around him. To face him now as a manager is something special — but once the whistle blows, there’ll be no room for sentiment.”
A win would be the icing on the vegan birthday cake for Savage, who turns 51 on Saturday — but it will be business as usual for the Rovers boss. “It’ll be watching every manager’s interview, looking at the lower league, reviewing our game, highlights, Match of the Day, researching for 606 on Sunday… Listen, I’m 51. I’m very fortunate to be involved in football. For me, it’s my birthday every day,” he said. “Every time I wake up and go to work in football, I feel so lucky. Hopefully that continues for a long time.”
The match also carries a special twist for Forest Green’s sporting director Mark Bowen, who was Hughes’ right-hand man at Wales and Blackburn, where they also coached Savage at the same time. It’s a reunion of sorts, with past alliances and rivalries all colliding in one
For Hughes, currently in charge of third-placed Carlisle, it’s another test in his side’s push for an automatic return to League Two. But the former Manchester City boss was quick to praise his former pupil, acknowledging Savage’s growing reputation on the touchline. “Robbie’s always had passion and energy in abundance,” Hughes told BBC Sport. “I’m not surprised he’s taken to management the way he has.”
The matchup promises an intriguing tactical battle: Hughes’ measured, experienced approach against Savage’s youthful enthusiasm and attacking intent. Both sides are in need of points, and the added subplot only adds spice to what could be a gripping contest.
Whether it ends in victory or defeat, Savage knows this encounter will be one to savour — a full-circle moment between two generations of Welsh football men who share the same competitive fire.
