Steve Evans has thrown his weight behind Robbie Savage's expected appointment as Peterborough United manager, telling the BBC's 72+ EFL podcast that the former Wales midfielder has the character London Road demands right now.

Savage is reportedly set to leave Forest Green for Posh, and Evans, who managed Peterborough for 11 months before being sacked in 2019, revealed the pair had spoken at length over recent days as Savage carried out his due diligence on the club.

"He's trying to do his homework, his diligence, on what Darragh is like, what Barry Fry is like, other than the character everyone sees via the media," said Evans, now in charge at Bristol Rovers. "He is trying to understand a bit more about the club."

Patience and process

Evans noted that chairman Darragh MacAnthony had "shown more patience" with outgoing boss Luke Williams than he had with him during his own spell. Williams was sacked following a defeat to Doncaster Rovers, leaving Peterborough searching for their next head coach.

According to Evans, the recruitment process was thorough. "Barry told me there were five candidates coming in to see them," he said. "My understanding from other people is that Robbie's enthusiasm stood out a million percent."

The Scot was emphatic that personality is the key ingredient at this club. "For me it's a club that needs a character. Darren Ferguson was a character, Grant McCann was a character. I tried to be. They need someone and I think that's probably where Darragh's edging to... and Robbie's done well."

Big personalities, one direction

Any concern that two high-profile personalities could clash was brushed aside by Evans, who spoke from direct experience of working under MacAnthony.

"I think it'll work. I've worked for Darragh, he's a hard guy for sure, but I think the personality [element] will work," he said. "He's one of those chairmen you can have a row with, it's how you put that opinion across. You have to do it respectfully. It won't be once or twice, it'll be more than that."

Evans also highlighted the value of director of football Barry Fry in the background. "People underestimate the role that Barry plays, he protects you on a bad day from the chairman," he said. "I think he'll get brilliant support from Barry Fry."

A wonderful opportunity

Evans, who describes himself as a Posh fan living in the city, was clear-eyed about what Savage is walking into. The expectation at Peterborough is typically to challenge at the top of League One, and the new manager will be expected to steady the ship quickly and push the club back towards the promotion picture.

"Robbie has to work hard to make that relationship work because it's Darragh's club," Evans said. "But he gets into League One and a wonderful opportunity."

Savage has built a reputation as a high-energy, hands-on manager during his time at Forest Green, and if the appointment is confirmed, Posh supporters will hope that energy translates into results in the third tier. Evans, for one, thinks it will.

Frequently asked

Is Robbie Savage the new Peterborough United manager?
According to reports, Savage is set to leave Forest Green and take charge at Peterborough United, though the club had not officially confirmed the appointment at the time of writing.
Why was Luke Williams sacked as Peterborough manager?
Luke Williams was dismissed as Peterborough United manager following a defeat to Doncaster Rovers, ending his time at London Road.
Who has Steve Evans managed in League One?
Steve Evans managed Peterborough United for around 11 months before being sacked in 2019. He has also managed several other EFL clubs throughout his career.