In this article we will be discussing and reviewing the downfall of Forest Green Rovers and discussing what has happened to them in the past 24 months.
History
Forest Green Rovers were founded in 1889 and are based in the Gloucester Village of Nailsworth. After a period of low success, the club were founded by Ecotricity owner Dale Vince who invested heavily into the club. The elephant in the room is how Vince has controlled the club, Vince, who is a vegan, has made Forest Green the worlds first fully vegan club which has caused many fans to not like Forest Green. Despite this, Vince has seen the best period in the clubs history as they won promotion in 2017 from the national league for the first time in their history becoming a EFL club in the process. After two playoffs finishes in five years, Forest Green were promoted to League One under the guidance of now Luton and Premier League manager Rob Edwards. Edwards would soon leave for Watford and this would see the downfall of the club.
League One Issues
After Edwards departed for Watford, FGR made the surprising decision to appoint Ian Burchnall who had recently departed Notts County. Burchnall’s football is very progressive which is very much against Edward’s direct and physical style of play. After a summer rebuild, Forest Green would win their first League One game against Bristol Rovers, however FGR would only win 4 more leagues games until Burchnall and he was sacked on the 25th January and replaced by Duncan Ferguson. After a January window you would think Burchnall would have some time to gel with his new players, however Vince decided to replace the progressive Burchnall with the direct Ferguson. Forest Green would only win one more game as they were relegated following a 5-1 defeat against Barnsley on the 15th April. Ferguson would be sacked at the end of the season as FGR faced another season in League Two.
League Two Troubles and Return to Non League
The season started with Southampton youth coach David Horseman but following a strong summer window, he was sacked on the 20th December after only winning 4 league games with FGR sitting 23rd in the table. Then on the same day, Forest Green made one of the most surprising decisions I have ever seen in League Two football. Former Watford and Birmingham striker Troy Deeney was appointed as manager as we given a two year deal. Despite only having 30 days as manager and only been given 18 days in the window, Deeney was sacked as Forest Green manager following comments he made about certain players following a loss against Colchester United. Experienced Steve Cotteril was given the job but it would prove too little too late as FGR were relegated following a 6-0 defeat against Wrexham on the 13th April. After coming from the highest of highs following League Two promotion in 2022, Forest Green Rovers now face Non League football following a 7 year period in the EFL.
My Thoughts
Overall I think poor managerial appointments and poor recruitment has been to blame for Forest Green’s relegations. I do think they will be competitive in the National League next season and will be back in the EFL very soon.