Nottingham Forest and Scotland pay tribute as European Cup winner John Robertson dies aged 72

Former Nottingham Forest and Scotland winger John Robertson has died at the age of 72, prompting an outpouring of grief from the club where he became a legend and from the wider football community.

Robertson passed away peacefully on Christmas morning following a long illness, surrounded by his family. His death was confirmed in statements released by Nottingham Forest, the Scotland national team and his loved ones, all of whom paid tribute to a man remembered as much for his humility as for his extraordinary talent.

Forest described Robertson as one of the greatest players in the club’s history. In a statement, the club said it was “heartbroken” to announce the passing of a true great and a dear friend. They hailed his “unrivalled talent, humility and unwavering devotion” and said his legacy would never be forgotten, calling him simply “Our greatest.”

Robertson became a cult hero at Nottingham Forest after playing a decisive role in the club’s golden era under Brian Clough. Operating from the left wing, he was central to Forest’s remarkable back-to-back European Cup triumphs in 1979 and 1980, moments that secured his place in football history.

Born in Lanarkshire on 20 January 1953 and raised in Uddingston, Robertson signed for Forest at just 15 years old. He made his first-team debut at 17 and quickly established himself as a key figure. His intelligence on the ball, ability to beat defenders and composure on the biggest stages made him indispensable as Forest won the First Division title in 1978 before conquering Europe twice.

Beyond those historic nights, Robertson also lifted the League Cup twice with Forest, adding further silverware to a career defined by success at the City Ground. He briefly left the club in 1983 to join Derby County, spending two seasons there before returning to Forest in 1985. He played 12 times in his final campaign before being released.

On the international stage, Robertson earned 28 caps for Scotland during a five-year career. He represented his country at the 1978 and 1982 World Cups and was part of the side that famously defeated England 1-0 at Wembley, an image of him celebrating with arms raised becoming an enduring symbol of that victory. The Scotland team said their thoughts were with his family and friends following his passing.

After retiring from playing, Robertson moved into coaching, working as an assistant at Celtic and Aston Villa, continuing his contribution to the game away from the spotlight.

His family described his death as an “immense pain and sadness” but said their comfort lay in knowing his struggles were over and that he was reunited with his daughter Jessica. To the football world he was “Robbo”, a hero and icon. To them, he was simply John: a husband, father and grandad who was kind, loving, witty, fun and loyal.

Robertson is survived by his wife Sharyl, daughter Liz, sons Andrew and Mark, and granddaughters Jess and Phoebe. As tributes continue to pour in, his legacy as a double European Cup winner and one of Forest’s most beloved figures remains secure.