Nottingham Forest Legend John Robertson Dies at 71
Football fans across the world are mourning the loss of one of Nottingham Forest’s most iconic players, John Robertson, who passed away at the age of 71. Known for his extraordinary dribbling skills, precise crossing, and ice-cool temperament, Robertson was a pivotal figure during Nottingham Forest’s golden era under legendary manager Brian Clough.
Born on January 20, 1953, in Uddingston, Scotland, John Neilson Robertson began his professional football journey with Nottingham Forest in 1970. Although he initially struggled to make an impression, his fortunes changed dramatically when Brian Clough and Peter Taylor took charge of the club in 1975. Clough saw something special in Robertson and, with patience and belief, helped transform the slightly overweight, quiet Scotsman into one of the most feared left-wingers in European football.
Between 1976 and 1980, Robertson made an astonishing 243 consecutive appearances for Forest—a record that stands as a testament to his resilience and consistency. But it wasn’t just his work rate that made him a legend. Robertson was a genius with the ball at his feet. He had an uncanny ability to glide past defenders with minimal fuss, whip in devastating crosses, and deliver at the biggest moments.
His crowning achievements came during Forest’s historic back-to-back European Cup triumphs. In the 1979 final against Malmö FF, it was Robertson who supplied the pinpoint cross that allowed Trevor Francis to head home the winning goal. Just a year later, in the 1980 final, Robertson again played the hero’s role—this time scoring the only goal of the match against Hamburg. That victory etched his name permanently in football folklore and helped Nottingham Forest become one of the few clubs to win successive European Cups.
Beyond his club success, Robertson also shone on the international stage. He earned 28 caps for Scotland, representing his country with pride and professionalism. He featured in both the 1978 and 1982 World Cups, showcasing his talents to a global audience.
Perhaps one of the greatest compliments ever paid to Robertson came from his manager, Brian Clough, who famously said, “John Robertson was the Picasso of our game. He could do things with a ball that most players could only dream of.” Clough’s admiration was well-earned. Despite his quiet nature off the pitch, Robertson was a magician on it—a player who thrived on big occasions and never shied away from responsibility.
After retiring from playing, Robertson remained involved in football, forging a successful coaching partnership with Martin O’Neill, another Forest great. Together, they led clubs like Leicester City, Celtic, and Aston Villa to success, with Robertson often working behind the scenes as a trusted assistant.
In 2016, his immense contributions to the sport were formally recognized when he was inducted into the National Football Museum’s Hall of Fame. The honor was a fitting tribute to a man whose footballing artistry had inspired generations of fans.
Robertson’s death marks the end of an era for Nottingham Forest and Scottish football. He was more than just a player—he was a symbol of a time when Forest defied the odds to conquer Europe, led by a group of working-class heroes with unmatched determination and flair.
Tributes have poured in from fans, former teammates, and clubs across the footballing world. Many recall not only his brilliance on the pitch but also his humility and loyalty off it. John Robertson may be gone, but his legacy will endure wherever football is played and remembered.
He leaves behind a legacy defined by glory, artistry, and unwavering commitment to the game he loved. Nottingham Forest will forever cherish the memories of the
ir beloved number 11.
