Nottingham Forest’s John Robertson lifts the European Cup(Image: Nottingham Post)
Former Nottingham Forest winger John Robertson has died at the age of 72, the club has announced. Robertson was a cult hero at the City Ground after playing a key role in the football club’s two European Cup wins in 1979 and 1980.
The Scottish international started and ended his career at the City Ground, either side of a spell at local rivals Derby County. He famously provided the cross for Trevor Francis to head home the only goal against Swedish outfit Malmo in Munich as Brian Clough’s side lifted the European Cup for the first time.
Twelve months later, Robertson was on the scoresheet in another 1-0 victory, as Forest defended their European crown against Hamburg at the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid. He went on to win 28 caps for Scotland during a five-year international career, including at the 1982 World Cup.
A statement issued by Nottingham Forest this afternoon (December 25) read: “We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Nottingham Forest legend and dear friend, John Robertson. A true great of our club and a double European Cup winner, John’s unrivalled talent, humility and unwavering devotion to Nottingham Forest will never ever be forgotten.
“Our thoughts are with John’s family, friends and all who loved him. Rest in Peace, Robbo… Our greatest.”
Tributes have been paid to Robertson from the world of football. Former Forest forward Stan Collymore wrote on X: “An incredibly heavy heart having been told of the passing of John Robertson, Forest’s greatest ever player, my coach at Leicester and one of the loveliest, kindest hearted humans I’ve met.
“As a kid he was a hero on Star Soccer with his beguiling wing play, trademark shoulder drop, go past the fullback and cross. When I finally got to Forest I wore white tape under my shinpads in homage to him.”
He added: “Robbo, you’ll be sorely missed, thank you for your inspiration as a player, your support as a coach and lasting legacy as a lovely human being. Rest in peace, Robbo.”
Former Forest midfielder Andy Reid wrote: “Gutted to hear this, the best player ever [to] wear the garibaldi. More importantly, an incredible human being, always humble, respectful, and funny. Condolences to John’s family.”