Forest Green Rovers have initiated legal proceedings against Peterborough United, claiming the National League rivals engaged in an illegal approach to secure former manager Robbie Savage without proper protocol.
The dispute centres on allegations that Peterborough made direct contact with Savage despite initial resistance from Forest Green Rovers. Owner Dale Vince announced the legal action and expressed frustration with how the situation unfolded. “Peterborough themselves have covered themselves in no glory here,” Vince stated. “They came to us and said, ‘We would like to speak to your manager,'” he continued, highlighting the initial approach to Forest Green Rovers before the alleged subsequent direct contact.
The Allegations
According to Forest Green Rovers’ claim, Peterborough United violated football’s established protocols by approaching Savage directly after the initial request was handled through official channels. Vince’s comments suggest the issue arose when Peterborough proceeded beyond the club-to-club discussion phase.
Peterborough’s Response
Peterborough United, led by chairman Darren MacAnthony, has denied any wrongdoing in connection with the managerial appointment. The club has not publicly detailed its defence against the tapping-up allegation, though their denial signals they dispute Forest Green Rovers’ characterisation of events.
The legal action represents an escalation of tensions between the two National League football clubs and reflects broader disputes within English football regarding the recruitment of management personnel. Such cases typically involve claims that clubs have breached Football League regulations governing how teams may approach managerial candidates employed by rival organisations.
The case adds another layer of complexity to managerial movements within England’s fifth tier, where formal procedures exist to govern transfers of personnel between competing clubs. Forest Green Rovers’ decision to pursue legal remedies underscores the seriousness with which the organisation views the alleged breach.