The football world is in mourning following the death of Nottingham Forest icon and Scotland international John Robertson at the age of 72. The legendary winger, a pivotal figure in Forest's historic back-to-back European Cup triumphs, passed away peacefully on Christmas morning after a long illness, surrounded by his family.
A Forest Hero and European Champion
Robertson's name is forever etched in the annals of Nottingham Forest's greatest era. Signed by the club at just 15, he made his senior debut aged 17 and became an indispensable part of the team under Brian Clough. His skill and creativity on the wing were instrumental as Forest clinched the First Division title in 1978 before achieving the extraordinary feat of winning the European Cup in both 1979 and 1980.
The club paid a heartfelt tribute, stating: "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." He also won the League Cup twice during his storied tenure at the City Ground.
International Career and Later Life
Born in Lanarkshire on 20 January 1953, Robertson earned 28 caps for Scotland over a five-year international career. His selection for the 1978 and 1982 FIFA World Cup squads highlighted his status as one of the country's finest players of his generation. The Scottish national team also expressed their condolences following his passing.
After a brief two-year spell with Derby County from 1983, Robertson returned to Forest for a final season in 1985 before retiring. He later moved into coaching, serving as an assistant at both Celtic and Aston Villa.
A Beloved Family Man
In a moving statement, his family shared the personal loss behind the public figure. "It is with immense pain and sadness that we announce the passing of our wonderful husband, dad and grandad," they said. "John passed away peacefully on Christmas morning with his wife and family by his side, after a long illness. Our only comfort in our grief is that his struggles are now over, and he is reunited with his daughter Jessica."
They poignantly added: "'Robbo' was treasured by many as a footballing hero, but to us he was just John and dad, the family man… kind, loving, witty, fun and loyal." He is survived by his wife Sharyl, daughter Liz, sons Andrew and Mark, and granddaughters Jess and Phoebe.
The football community and fans alike are united in remembering a humble genius of the game, whose legacy at Nottingham Forest remains unsurpassed.
