Blackburn Rovers’ search for a new head coach has taken another turn, with Forest Green Rovers boss Robbie Savage emerging as a serious contender for the vacancy at Ewood Park.
Rovers are back on the managerial carousel following the departure of Valérien Ismaël, whose exit came after an eight-game winless run that dragged the club into a relegation fight in the Championship. His departure continued a turbulent 12 months that has also seen Jon Dahl Tomasson and John Eustace leave the role, underlining the instability behind the scenes.
Earlier this week, Reading head coach Leam Richardson was widely reported as a leading candidate, with indications that the Royals would seek around £400,000 in compensation should Blackburn formalise their interest. That situation remains unresolved, but attention has now shifted towards Savage, who is currently in charge at Forest Green Rovers.
According to reports from Football Insider, Savage is viewed internally as a strong profile fit by Blackburn’s decision makers. The former Rovers midfielder has built an increasingly credible managerial reputation, first at Macclesfield and now at Forest Green, where results and performances have elevated his standing within the EFL and beyond.
Interesting Forest Green stats
Savage’s record at Forest Green has drawn particular interest. Across 30 National League matches, his side has lost just four times, winning 16 and drawing 10 to collect 58 points at an average of 1.93 points per game. Forest Green currently sit fourth in the table, firmly in the play-off positions and within touching distance of the automatic promotion places.
That form has been accompanied by praise for Savage’s approach to management, with Forest Green vice chairman Asif Rehmanwala previously highlighting his inclusive leadership style and willingness to integrate data and analytics into decision-making. Those traits are understood to align with what Blackburn’s hierarchy believes is required as they attempt to stabilise their Championship status.
Other candidates
Savage is not the only familiar name under consideration. Former Rovers manager Mark Hughes, now in charge at Carlisle United, has also been discussed, while ex-Wales boss Chris Coleman remains another option in a growing shortlist.
Blackburn’s immediate focus remains on results on the pitch, with interim head coach Damien Johnson overseeing a vital 1-0 win over Sheffield Wednesday that briefly eased pressure. However, with a crucial fixture against Norwich City looming, clarity over the club’s long-term leadership is expected to become increasingly urgent.
As things stand, Savage’s rise from outside contender to genuine candidate reflects both his progress in management and Blackburn’s willingness to look beyond established Championship names as they search for stability and direction.