ROBBIE SAVAGE has hit out at the “vile” abuse he received from opposition fans during his team’s league game this weekend.
He has also demanded stronger action after claiming it “crossed the line.”
The Forest Green Rovers boss was targeted during his side’s 4-2 defeat at Carlisle United, who are managed by another former United man Mark Hughes in the National League.
Savage says the abuse went far beyond the usual football banter.
The former Wales international, who turned 51 on the day of the match, says he’s had enough of taking personal stick simply because of who he is.
Speaking to BBC Radio Gloucestershire, he said: “I’ll take the banter, when they’re singing songs about me, I’ve got no problem.
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“But when it crosses the line, when it becomes nasty and some of the stuff said is wrong. What’s that about it?”
“I’m expected to stand there and take it because it’s me. But it’s not acceptable.”
Savage, known for his combative style as a player and outspoken views as a pundit, says the abuse is now becoming routine.
He added: “Stewards, volunteers, whoever’s standing there, it’s allowed to happen consistently.
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“I’ve taken photos with kids, I’m happy to engage with fans.
“But then I get hurled the most shocking abuse by people of all ages, probably people in high-powered jobs and they think it’s fine. It’s not.”
Savage, who also co-hosts the 606 phone-in show on BBC Radio 5 Live, insists this isn’t a one-off.
He said: “It happened the other night at Worthing and it’s happened again today. I don’t think it’s acceptable but nothing’s going to be done. Nothing ever is.”
Forest Green remain rooted to the bottom of the National League but Savage’s bigger concern is the way managers and public figures are treated at football grounds across the country.
