John Robertson, the legendary Nottingham Forest winger, has died at the age of 72. News of his passing on December 25, 2025, has prompted an outpouring of tributes, with many recalling his pivotal role in the club's unprecedented success under manager Brian Clough. Robertson is remembered as Forest's "greatest ever player" by the club and fans alike.

Robertson was born in Viewpark, Uddingston, and joined Nottingham Forest in 1970. However, his career only truly blossomed with the arrival of Brian Clough in 1975. Clough recognized Robertson's potential and transformed him into a key player, deploying him as a left winger.

Robertson's contributions were instrumental in Nottingham Forest's remarkable achievements. He helped the team achieve promotion from the Second Division in 1977, win the First Division title in 1978, and secure two League Cups. However, it was in the European Cup that Robertson truly cemented his legendary status.

In the 1979 European Cup final against Malmö, Robertson provided the pinpoint cross for Trevor Francis to score the only goal, securing Forest's first European Cup victory. The following year, in the final against Hamburg, Robertson himself scored the winning goal, solidifying his place in Nottingham Forest folklore.

Following his death, recollections of Robertson's greatest moments have resurfaced, including his own reflections on the winning goal against Hamburg. While Robertson was known for his humility, he acknowledged the significance of the goal and his overall contribution to the team's success. He once said that he was just happy to play his part in bringing glory to Nottingham Forest.

Beyond his club achievements, Robertson also represented Scotland 28 times, scoring eight goals. These included a memorable goal against England at Wembley in 1981 and a goal in the 1982 World Cup against New Zealand.

After his playing career, Robertson transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant to Martin O'Neill at various clubs, including Leicester City, Celtic, and Aston Villa. Together, they achieved considerable success, including winning the Scottish Premier League title multiple times with Celtic.

Robertson's impact on Nottingham Forest and football, in general, is undeniable. He was a gifted player with exceptional dribbling skills and a precise left foot. Brian Clough famously described him as "the Picasso of our game". His humility, talent, and dedication made him a true legend of the sport. The sentiment "Rest in Peace, Robbo... Our greatest," encapsulates the high regard in which he was held by Nottingham Forest.

Robertson is survived by his wife, Sharyl, his daughter Liz, and sons Andrew and Mark, as well as granddaughters Jess and Phoebe. His family stated that their "only comfort" was that he is reunited with his late daughter, Jessica.