The FA Cup has set the stage for a unique family confrontation as Peterborough manager Robbie Savage prepares to face his son, Reading midfielder Charlie Savage, in the first round.
Robbie Savage described the impending match as "horrible," despite the novelty and potential intrigue of a father-son football showdown. The draw unexpectedly pitted the two clubs against each other, a fixture that was already scheduled in League One but now takes on added significance in the cup competition.
"People keep telling me it's great I'm managing against my son... it's not - it's horrible," Robbie told the Daily Mail. "Every time I watch my sons play, I'm anxious. I'm nervous. I want them to do well. If they give the ball away and the other team attack, I've got butterflies thinking, 'Please don't score'. This will be the first time I hope my son doesn't have an impact, which is a horrible feeling."
Charlie Savage acknowledged the unusual family dynamic, noting the potential for an "awkward car journey home" depending on the outcome. "Football is a beautiful game, it brings people together and creates rivalries," he said. "This week it's created a rivalry in our family. I'm not sure who my mum, brother, grandparents and cousins will support but there's no better time for them to have a half-and-half scarf."
Despite the personal drama, both father and son emphasized that the tie is primarily about their respective clubs. "We've got to win for Peterborough United," Robbie stated. Charlie added, "I'm not sure who my mum, brother, grandparents and cousins will support but there's no better time for them to have a half-and-half scarf."
The journey into management for Robbie was inspired by coaching his sons. He previously assisted with his younger son Freddie's youth team, an experience that rekindled his passion for the game away from media work. Charlie and Freddie had encouraged their father to pursue a managerial role, a prediction he made years ago that he would eventually manage against his son.
Both Savages came through the Manchester United academy, with Charlie making a first-team appearance in the Champions League, an achievement Robbie cherishes. "He'll always have that on me," Robbie said. "All I ever wanted to do from 14 to 19 was play for one minute in Manchester United's first team. It didn't happen and he's done it. His name is on the wall at Carrington and mine isn't. I'm so glad his name is there instead of mine."
Robbie praised Charlie's dedication and character, highlighting his son's strong work ethic, academic achievements, and ability to handle pressure, contrasting it with his own past tendencies to sulk. Charlie, in turn, spoke about the challenges of playing under his father's famous name, acknowledging the added scrutiny but expressing pride in his father. "He gives it out and he can take it and, unfortunately, it has become part of his life to be on the receiving end," Charlie said of his dad Robbie. "Sometimes the abuse goes too far. People forget he's a human not just a football personality."