- John Robertson, the iconic Nottingham Forest and Scotland winger, passed away peacefully on Christmas Day 2025 at age 72 after a long illness.
- Known as Brian Clough’s “Picasso of our game,” Robertson played a pivotal role in Forest’s back-to-back European Cup victories in 1979 and 1980.
- He assisted Trevor Francis’s winner in 1979 and scored the decisive goal in 1980 against Hamburg.
- Robertson earned 28 Scotland caps, scoring memorably against England in 1981 and at the 1982 World Cup.
A Transformative Talent Under Brian Clough
John Robertson’s career epitomized redemption and brilliance. Born in Uddingston, Scotland, in 1953, he joined Nottingham Forest in 1970 after youth success. Early struggles—placed on the transfer list—changed dramatically when Brian Clough arrived in 1975.
Clough saw potential in the “scruffy” winger, transforming him into a key asset. Robertson’s cultured left foot (and reliable right) delivered pinpoint crosses and crucial goals. Captain John McGovern likened him to “Ryan Giggs with two good feet.”
He played 243 consecutive games from 1976-1980, anchoring Forest’s miraculous rise: promotion, 1977-78 league title, and European dominance.
European Glory and Domestic Success
Robertson’s defining moments came in Europe. In the 1979 final against Malmö, his cross found Trevor Francis for the winner—Forest’s first European Cup.
In 1980 against Hamburg, Robertson scored the only goal, securing back-to-back titles—a feat unmatched by English clubs since.
Domestically, he netted the League Cup final replay winner against Liverpool in 1978. Forest also claimed the UEFA Super Cup, two League Cups, Charity Shield, and Anglo-Scottish Cup.
A 2015 fan poll crowned him Forest’s greatest player.
| John Robertson’s Major Trophies with Nottingham Forest |
|---|
| European Cup: 1979, 1980 |
| First Division: 1977-78 |
| League Cup: 1978, 1979 |
| UEFA Super Cup: 1979 |
| Charity Shield: 1978 |
| Anglo-Scottish Cup: 1977 |
International Career and Coaching Legacy
Robertson won 28 Scotland caps (1978-1983), scoring eight goals. Highlights: Wembley winner against England (1981 penalty) and 1982 World Cup strike versus New Zealand.
Post-playing, he assisted Martin O’Neill at Wycombe, Norwich, Leicester, Celtic, and Aston Villa. Successes included promotions, League Cups, three Scottish titles, three Scottish Cups, one League Cup, and UEFA Cup final (2003).
Tributes and Personal Legacy
News of Robertson’s passing on Christmas morning drew heartfelt tributes. Forest called him a “true great” with “unrivalled talent and humility.”
Family described him as loving husband, father, and grandfather. Teammates like Stan Collymore and Alan Thompson praised his kindness and influence.
Clough’s transformation—from “waste of time” to “Picasso”—defines Robertson’s story: raw talent honed into legend.
John Robertson’s death on December 25, 2025, marks the end of an era for Nottingham Forest and Scottish football. The winger’s contributions to Brian Clough’s miracle team remain etched in history.
From humble beginnings—rejected by bigger clubs, joining Forest young—Robertson overcame early doubts. Clough’s faith unlocked his two-footed wizardry: devastating crosses, clutch goals.
European finals showcased peak impact: 1979 assist, 1980 winner. Domestic hauls followed, cementing immortality.
Scotland benefited from his flair: 28 caps, iconic strikes.
Coaching extended influence alongside O’Neill: trophies across clubs, nurturing winners.
Tributes reflect universal admiration: skill, humility, warmth. Family’s statement captures essence—hero to many, beloved dad/grandad.
Robertson’s journey inspires: perseverance yields greatness. His legacy endures in Forest lore and football’s golden tales.
