Nottingham Forest and Scotland legend John Robertson, described by the iconic Briah Clough as “the Picasso of our game”, has died aged 72.
The winger was an essential part of the Forest side that achieved the unthinkable under Clough, rising from the Second Division to win back-to-back European Cups in 1979 and 1980.
Robertson’s contribution in those finals cemented his legacy, providing the assist for Trevor Francis’ winner in 1979 before scoring the decisive goal himself against Hamburg in 1980.
The legend scored a winning goal for Scotland against England at Wembley in 1981.
Robertson was born in Scotland. At first he struggled with professionalism at Forest before a stern talking-to from Clough’s assistant, Peter Taylor, changed his career.
He became the creative heartbeat of a legendary side, marking over 500 appearances and winning several trophies.
After his retirement he enjoyed a successful coaching career, most notably as assistant to former teammate Martin O’Neill at Celtic.
The football industry has begun to pay tribute with messages from Forest, Derby County and the Scotland national team mourning the loss of the football legend.
