In Awe of John Robertson's Footballing Prowess
A Guardian Letters feature recalls John Robertson's remarkable skill on the football pitch, spotlighting a mid-1980s memory at Highbury where he nutmegged a defender during an Arsenal versus Nottingham Forest match, an impressive moment witnessed by a nearby Arsenal fan.
Following Nottingham Forest's 1980 European Cup triumph, Brian Clough highlighted Robertson's contribution by delivering the decisive cross for Trevor Francis's winning goal. Clough also remarked that he never paid to acquire Robertson.
Despite his genius, Robertson was often described as a 'scruffy, unfit' player who did not receive the recognition he truly deserved. David Whitehead commented on Clough's faith and admiration for Robertson, affectionately referencing his nickname, the 'little fat guy.'
A photograph accompanying the feature shows Robertson at Nottingham Forest in 2011, credit Steve Hill/Shutterstock.
This piece was published on December 30, 2025, in the Letters section.
