Nottingham Forest legend and Scottish football icon John Robertson has sadly passed away at the age of 72. Born in Lanarkshire, Robertson joined Forest as a youngster from Drumchapel Amateurs and played a central role in the club’s golden era under manager Brian Clough in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
He helped Forest win the league in 1978 and the European Cup in 1979 and 1980, scoring the winning goal in the final against Hamburg. In addition to these, Robertson’s trophies include two League Cups, one European Super Cup and the FA Charity Shield. After two years at Derby County, he returned to Forest in 1985. In 2015, he was voted the club’s favorite player by fans.
Internationally, Robertson won 28 caps for Scotland between 1978 and 1983, scoring eight goals. His notable goals include his only goal in a 1-0 win against England at Wembley in 1981 and his goal against New Zealand in the 1982 World Cup.
After retiring in 1986, Robertson turned to coaching, serving as assistant to former teammate Martin O’Neill at several clubs including Wycombe Wanderers, Norwich City, Leicester City, Celtic and Aston Villa.
Despite supporting Rangers as a youngster, Robertson later admitted that his years working with O’Neill at Celtic Park were some of the most rewarding of his career.
Robertson suffered a health crisis in 2013 when he suffered a heart attack while playing tennis with former Forest colleague Liam O’Kane.
He had been battling Parkinson’s disease for years and maintained regular communication with his former teammates, even though the disease affected his ability to speak.
Nottingham Forest have announced a touching tribute to their ‘greatest of all time’ player. The club said: “We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Nottingham Forest legend and dear friend John Robertson.
“A true great of our club and a two-time European Cup winner, John’s unparalleled talent, humility and unwavering dedication to Nottingham Forest will never be forgotten. Our thoughts are with John’s family, friends and all those who loved him. Rest in peace, Robbo…our great man.”
Former Celtic player Alan Thompson, who worked under Robertson at Parkhead, said: “Earlier today we heard the devastating news of the passing of former Celtic assistant manager John Robertson. Our thoughts go out to his loving family and our thoughts and prayers are with them all.”
