The football world united in solemn tribute on Friday as legendary figures from across the sport gathered to celebrate the life of John Robertson, the Nottingham Forest and Scotland icon who passed away on Christmas Day at the age of 72 following a battle with Parkinson's disease.
A Final Farewell to a Forest Great
Mourners assembled at Rushcliffe Oaks Crematorium in Nottinghamshire to honour a man widely regarded as Nottingham Forest's greatest-ever player, whose instrumental role secured back-to-back European Cup triumphs in 1979 and 1980. The service attracted an illustrious congregation of football personalities, reflecting Robertson's profound impact on the game.
An Illustrious Gathering of Football Icons
Among those pictured arriving to pay their respects were former teammates and managerial colleagues, including Roy Keane, Stuart Pearce, and Martin O'Neill. Current Nottingham Forest manager Sean Dyche joined Leeds United legend Eddie Gray, former captain John McGovern, club chairman Nicholas Randall, and striker Garry Birtles in commemorating Robertson's legacy.
Notably, actress Vicky McClure, whose husband Jonny Owen is a devoted Forest fan and filmmaker documenting the club's glory years, attended the funeral. Owen's documentary work fostered a close friendship with Robertson, connecting the entertainment world with football's historic narrative.
The Unforgettable Legacy of a European Hero
Robertson's career is etched in football folklore through moments of sheer brilliance. In the 1979 European Cup final against Malmo, his precise cross set up Trevor Francis for the decisive goal. The following year, he transformed from provider to scorer, netting the winner against Hamburg to secure Forest's second continental crown.
Stuart Pearce, himself a Forest legend, has unequivocally named Robertson as the greatest player in the club's storied history. This sentiment echoes throughout the football community, with Robertson's technical mastery earning him the nickname 'the Picasso of our game' from legendary manager Brian Clough, who praised his artistic ability with just 'a yard of grass'.
A Career Defined by Loyalty and Achievement
Robertson's connection with Nottingham Forest spanned decades, beginning with his debut in October 1970 and encompassing 502 appearances over a thirteen-year period. After a brief spell with Derby County, he returned to Forest to conclude his playing career in the 1985-86 season, having participated in 627 professional matches overall.
His international career with Scotland yielded 28 caps and memorable highlights, including scoring the winning penalty against England at Wembley in 1981 to clinch the British Home Championship. He also found the net against New Zealand during the 1982 World Cup, showcasing his talent on the global stage.
Post-Retirement Contributions and Enduring Admiration
Following his retirement from playing, Robertson remained deeply involved in football, serving as Martin O'Neill's trusted assistant manager at several clubs including Wycombe Wanderers, Norwich City, Leicester City, Celtic, and Aston Villa. His tactical insight and experience proved invaluable throughout this second chapter of his football life.
The depth of affection for Robertson among supporters was formally recognised in 2015 when a Nottingham Post poll confirmed him as the fans' all-time favourite player. The club's official statement last month captured this universal sentiment, describing Robertson as 'a true great of our Club' whose 'unrivalled talent, humility and unwavering devotion to Nottingham Forest will never ever be forgotten'.
As the football community reflects on his passing, John Robertson's legacy endures not merely through trophies and statistics, but through the profound respect he commanded from teammates, rivals, managers, and supporters alike—a legacy truly worthy of the title 'our greatest'.
