Forest Green Rovers Manager Robbie Savage Opens Up About Mental Health Struggles Amid Fan Abuse
Forest Green Rovers manager Robbie Savage revealed today he has been affected by “vile abuse” directed towards him by some opposition fans, highlighting the impact of isolation and the importance of mental health support in football.
The 51-year-old former Wales midfielder, who took the full-time job at Forest Green in July, spends much of the week away from his family home near Manchester. “There are times I go back to my apartment and I’m isolated, I’m on my own, and it can be hard,” Savage said. “When you’re a player, you can go out with your team-mates. As a manager you can’t go out with your players so it’s quite a lonely place, especially when you’re receiving abuse.” Savage, who captained four Premier League clubs, has previously spoken about his experiences with anxiety and panic attacks, as well as the loss of his father.
Earlier this month, Savage reported abuse that “crossed the line” during an away game at Carlisle United, prompting the club to share footage with the Football Association. He emphasized the difference between typical football banter and unacceptable behavior, stating, “But there is a line. That line was crossed [against Carlisle] and that’s not acceptable. We’re not talking about the every day abuse that football fans give.” This comes as his club participates in an NHS pilot scheme in Gloucestershire, offering free tickets to patients with mild to moderate depression – a program demonstrating a growing awareness of the benefits of social connection for mental wellbeing, as explored by the Mind charity.
Savage fully supports the ticket initiative, explaining, “People do struggle mentally in life… It’s about the day itself because when you come to a match, you meet new people, friends, engage with family.” He added, “People say I’m a pantomime villain and that I should be able to take the abuse, but it does get to me at times.” Forest Green Rovers are currently investigating ways to further support Savage and staff, and the FA has confirmed it will review the incident at Carlisle United.
