John Robertson, the legendary Nottingham Forest and Scotland winger, has died at the age of 72. His family confirmed he passed away peacefully on Christmas Day following a long illness. Robertson played a pivotal role in Brian Clough’s Nottingham Forest side that secured back-to-back European Cup victories in 1979 and 1980, etching his name into the annals of football history. He was widely regarded as one of the most gifted players of his generation, celebrated for his exceptional dribbling skills and decisive contributions on the pitch.

Robertson’s indelible impact on Forest’s golden era was perhaps best exemplified in the 1979 European Cup final. In Munich, he delivered the precise cross that allowed Trevor Francis to head home the solitary goal against Swedish opponents Malmö, securing the club’s maiden continental title. This moment not only cemented Forest’s unexpected rise to European dominance but also highlighted Robertson’s ability to perform under immense pressure on the biggest stage.

Just 12 months later, Robertson once again proved to be the match-winner as Nottingham Forest successfully defended their European crown. Facing German giants Hamburg in Madrid, he scored the decisive goal in another tight 1-0 victory, doubling the club’s tally of European Cups. His calm finish underscored his reputation as a player who consistently delivered crucial performances when they mattered most for Clough’s formidable team.

Born in Uddingston, Scotland, Robertson spent the majority of his distinguished playing career at the City Ground across two spells, bookending a brief period with local rivals Derby County. His career began and concluded at Nottingham Forest, where he made hundreds of appearances, becoming an iconic figure beloved by the club’s supporters. His consistent excellence and loyalty defined his long and fruitful tenure with the East Midlands club, where he earned the affectionate nickname ‘Robbo’.

On the international stage, Robertson earned 28 caps for Scotland during a five-year period that saw him represent his country at two FIFA World Cups. He was a key member of the Scotland squads that travelled to Argentina in 1978 and Spain in 1982, showcasing his talents on football’s grandest international platforms. His national team career further underlined his standing as one of Scotland’s most talented wingers, a player capable of influencing games at the highest level.

Following his retirement from playing, Robertson transitioned into coaching, embarking on a successful partnership with his former Nottingham Forest teammate, Martin O’Neill. He served as O’Neill’s assistant manager at several prominent clubs, including Wycombe Wanderers, Norwich City, Leicester City, Celtic, and Aston Villa. This long-standing collaboration saw them achieve significant success, particularly during their time at Celtic, where they secured multiple domestic honours.

Tributes have poured in from across the football world for a player described as a true legend. Nottingham Forest released a statement from Robertson’s family expressing “immense pain and sadness,” highlighting that he passed peacefully with his wife and family. They remembered him not just as a “footballing hero” but as “just John and dad, the family man…kind, loving, witty, fun and loyal,” finding comfort that his struggles were over and he was reunited with his daughter, Jessica.

Nottingham Forest Football Club itself paid homage to their former star, declaring him “a true great of our club” who would “never ever be forgotten.” The club’s statement concluded with a poignant “Rest in Peace, Robbo… Our greatest,” reflecting the profound impact he had on the institution and its fanbase. This sentiment was echoed by numerous former teammates and colleagues who shared their sorrow and fond memories.

Stan Collymore, who played under Robertson at Leicester City, offered a heartfelt tribute on social media platform X. He described Robertson as “Forest’s greatest ever player, my coach at Leicester and one of the loveliest, kindest hearted humans I’ve met.” Collymore recounted how Robertson provided genuine support and empathy during his personal struggles, a testament to his compassionate character beyond the football pitch.

Former Celtic midfielder Alan Thompson also shared his devastation, remembering Robertson as his “ex assistant manager at Celtic.” Thompson conveyed his thoughts and prayers to Robertson’s “lovely family,” underscoring the deep personal connections Robertson forged throughout his coaching career. Chris Sutton, another former Celtic player, hailed Robertson as “an incredible player, a genius, a legend, a sharp witted, funny man, a great friend and mentor to me,” emphasizing the multifaceted nature of his character and influence.

The Scotland national team, along with clubs where he played and coached, including Derby County, Celtic, Aston Villa, and Wycombe Wanderers, also issued statements of remembrance. These widespread tributes collectively underscored the universal respect and admiration Robertson commanded across the footballing community. His legacy as a player of immense talent and a genuinely kind individual will undoubtedly endure.

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Keywords: John Robertson, Nottingham Forest, European Cup winner, Scotland winger, Brian Clough era, Football legend death, Martin O'Neill assistant, Nottingham Forest 1979 1980