John Robertson, the Nottingham Forest and Scotland legend, has died at the age of 72. Robertson was a key figure in Brian Clough's great Forest team that rose from the second tier to win multiple major honours, including back-to-back European Cups. He set up the decisive goal in the first European Cup triumph in 1979 and scored the winning goal in the second. He earned 28 Scotland caps, notably scoring the winner against England at Wembley in 1981.
Forest said in a statement: 'We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Nottingham Forest legend and dear friend, John Robertson. A true great of our club and a double European Cup winner, John’s unrivalled talent, humility and unwavering devotion to Nottingham Forest will never ever be forgotten.' A family statement said: 'John passed away peacefully on Christmas morning with his wife and family by his side, after a long illness.'
Born in Uddingston, Lanarkshire in 1953, Robertson joined Forest in 1970. After initially struggling with off-pitch habits, he transformed his career following a stern warning from assistant manager Peter Taylor in 1976. He became a fundamental part of Forest's incredible journey, winning the First Division in 1978 and the League Cup in 1978 and 1979, in addition to the European Cups.
Robertson made over 500 appearances for Forest, scoring 95 goals. He later played for Derby County before returning to Forest and then moving into non-league. After retiring, he had a successful coaching career, notably as assistant to Martin O'Neill at Celtic, winning three league titles and reaching the UEFA Cup final. He also worked with O'Neill at Wycombe, Norwich, Leicester and Aston Villa.
Tributes have poured in from former teammates and players. Peter Shilton wrote: 'I’m absolutely gutted to hear of the news of our NFFC miracle man Robbo.' Stan Collymore described Robertson as 'one of the loveliest, kindest-hearted humans I’ve met.'
