John Robertson: Scotland and Nottingham Forest Legend Dies at 72
John Robertson, celebrated Scotland and Nottingham Forest football legend, died on Christmas Day 2025 at the age of 72. Renowned as a two-footed, left-footed outside left, Robertson was famed for his pace and crossing ability, playing a pivotal role in Forest’s European Cup final goals. A favorite of Brian Clough, his move to Derby County after leaving Forest caused an irreparable rift between Clough and Taylor and marked the decline of his playing career.
Robertson earned 28 caps for Scotland, participating in two World Cups between 1978 and 1983. His relatively brief international career was partly limited by national service. Following his playing days, he became a trusted coach for Martin O’Neill. Their enduring partnership spanned multiple clubs including Wycombe, Norwich, Leicester, Celtic, and Aston Villa. Together, the O’Neill-Robertson alliance was credited with overseeing one of Celtic’s most successful eras.
Despite his professional successes, Robertson endured significant personal tragedy. In 1979, a car he had gifted was involved in a crash that killed his brother and sister-in-law. Within a year, his father passed away, and in 1996, his daughter Jessica died at age 13 due to cerebral palsy. Robertson spent the majority of his life in the Nottingham area, remembered both for his football genius and mentoring style.
