Nottingham Forest said they were heartbroken when they announced the death of John Robertson. They remember the Scot as a “legend and dear friend” who will “never be forgotten” for his “unparalleled talent, humility and unwavering dedication to the club”.
Derby County, the only other club Robertson played for, said in a statement that it was “with deep sadness” and that they “express their deepest condolences to John’s family and friends.” The Scottish national football team also paid tribute by sharing a video clip of Robertson scoring the winning goal against England at Wembley Stadium in 1981, quoting a commentator who said: “John Robertson was probably the coolest guy on the field.”
Former Forest player Stan Collymore also shared a lengthy post on social media. It read: “It is with a heavy heart that I hear of the passing of John Robertson, Forest’s greatest ever player, my coach at Leicester, and one of the loveliest and kindest human beings I have ever met.”
“As a child he was a star football hero with his mesmerizing wing play, his trademark slump of his shoulders and his crosses past full-backs. When I finally got to Forest, I wore white tape under my shinguards in his honour.
“At Leicester, with Martin O’Neill, he knew about my issues and issues and, like many who would ridicule them, instead he literally put his arm around me and gave me words of empathy and kindness and wholeheartedly supported me. The fact that the Leicester players loved him so much was great to see. It’s a living legend getting so much love from a tough and experienced dressing room.”
“When I retired and started working in radio, I used to be at Villa Park and the radio point was near the tunnel. More than once, an hour after a game, I would see cigarette smoke coming out of the tunnel. Robbo would come around the corner and stick his head out and say, ‘I’m listening!’ I can hear you from here!”
“The last time I saw him was at the World Famous City Ground and we were sitting in the box together watching the Trickies. He entertained everyone with his great stories, his humour, and that special something that he and another great man, Trevor Francis, who will be sorely missed. That warmth has not faded or been touched by the messy industry of professional football over the years.
“He was just ‘Robbo’, a giant of my childhood and a giant of the club we were both lucky enough to represent, but a good man, just a very good man. I send all my love to Robbo’s family and friends, everyone at Forest and everyone who was lucky enough to spend time with him.”
“Last year it was Gary Shaw, this year it was Robbo, and the football gods have not been so kind in recent years. Robbo, you will be sorely missed and thank you for your inspiration as a player, your support as a coach, and your lasting legacy as a wonderful human being. Rest in Peace, Robbo.”
Fellow former Forest player Andy Reid said on social media: “Disappointed to hear this. The best player to ever wear Garibaldi shoes. More importantly, an incredible human being, always humble, polite and funny. My condolences to John’s family.”
