Ex-Rams man has been linked with managerial vacancies just months into his coaching career.
Robbie Savage, a former Derby County footballer, has proclaimed his desire to “manage at the highest level” after a successful start to his managerial career.
Savage began his coaching career in June when he was named manager of Macclesfield FC, a phoenix club founded following the insolvency of former Football League club Macclesfield Town. Macclesfield competes in the Northern Premier League, the third tier of non-league football, and presently leads the standings with only one loss and fifteen points over second place.
The Welshman’s impressive start to management has already led to speculation that he could leave the club, where he also serves on the board, with League One side Northampton Town reportedly shortlisting him for their open managerial role.
Speaking to Planet Sport Bet, Savage responded to the rumours: “I want to manage at the best level I can, and if that’s with Macclesfield, terrific. I am a young, up-and-coming manager, and it is wonderful to be associated with jobs, of course.
Despite his outstanding playing CV, which includes appearances for Derby, Leicester City, and Birmingham City, Savage is not certain that he should be managing at that level so early in his coaching career.
“I’m not arrogant enough to think that just because I played in the Premier League, I should be managing in league football right now,” the former Welsh star remarked. “I am managing at level three since I have not done anything yet.
“We’re doing well at Macclesfield, and it’s nice to be recognized for what we’ve accomplished thus far. The goal is to be promoted this season. And if there is speculation, that indicates my team and I are doing a good job. The supposition benefits my team.
“Until I get any more news, I’m the Macclesfield manager, and I’m totally enjoying and embracing it. “I love it.”
Savage has remained involved in football since his retirement in 2011, working as a pundit, director of football, and now manager. Not only that, but his son Charlie plays for Reading in League One after graduating from Manchester United’s academy, exactly like his father did.
“I’ve got 32 years of experience,” the senior Savage added.
“I’ve seen a lot of football over the last four years, especially with my son Charlie playing in League One for Reading.
“I’ve watched every one of his games, so I know every team, how they play, and every player, and that’s not just from League One; it’s from the Premier League on down.
“As a footballer, my objective was to play at the best level possible, which was the Premier League. I played in Europe. I played for my country and captained four Premier League teams. The goal was to play as consistently high as possible, and I accomplished that.”
Savage’s Silkmen are comfortably clear at the head of the league as they seek promotion to the second tier of non-league football, which would put them in the sights of the EFL.
Despite being only halfway through the season, Macclesfield are the clear favourites for the title owing to the former Rams player.
“Nothing is won in December,” Savage insisted. “All I can say is that I’m thoroughly enjoying my role as manager at Macclesfield. We are thriving, and I am always learning.
“As a staff, we’re doing well, and the players are buying into what we’re asking of them. We have a good lead at the top, and we need to keep doing what we’re doing.”
The 50-year-old made 137 appearances for the Rams, scoring seven goals, and competed in the UEFA Cup with Leicester and Blackburn Rovers.
