Scotland legend John Robertson dies as tributes pour in for Nottingham Forest icon who became Celtic coach with O’Neill

SCOTLAND legend and Nottingham Forest hero John Robertson has died.

Tributes have already started pouring in for the European Cup-winning winger, who passed away on Christmas Day at the age of 72.

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Former Nottingham Forest footballer, John RobertsonCredit: PA:Press Association

Robertson is widely considered Nottingham Forest’s best ever playerCredit: PA:Empics Sport

Robertson is considered by many as the greatest player in Nottingham Forest‘s history, inspiring Nigel Clough’s side to a league title, two European Cups and two League Cups during his time at the City Ground.

He provided the cross for Trevor Francis to score from in the 1979 European Cup final against Malmo and struck the winner a year later as Forest retained the trophy with a 1-0 victory over Hamburg.

He earned 28 caps for Scotland and scored eight goals, one of which came at the 1982 World Cup in a win over New Zealand. He played for his country at both the 1978 and 1982 World Cups.

Robertson was born in Viewpark in Lanarkshire and grew up as a Rangers supporter. He played for Scotland at schoolboy and youth levels before being spotted by Forest scouts whilst playing for Drumchapel Amateurs in 1970.

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He spent 13 years at Forest before moving to rivals Derby County on a free transfer, only to return after two seasons.

In total, he made over 500 appearances for Forest, scoring 95 goals.

After hanging up his boots as a player he moved into coaching and became a trusted part in the backroom team of former team mate Martin O’Neill.

Robertson worked as both an assistant coach and a scout with O’Neill, first teaming up with him at Wycombe Wanderers.

He followed him to Norwich and Leicester and then onto Celtic – where they had their most successful spell in the dugout.

Whilst at Parkhead the pair won three league titles, three Scottish Cups and a League Cup between 2000 and 2005, as well as reaching the Uefa Cup final in 2003.

They would later reunite at Aston Villa in 2006.

In 2015, Robertson topped a Nottingham Post poll of favourite Nottingham Forest players of all-time.

Before his death, his former captain at Forest John McGovern said of Robertson: “He was like Ryan Giggs but with two good feet, not one. He had more ability than Ryan Giggs, his ratio of creating goals was better and overall he was the superior footballer.”

Forest paid tribute to their “greatest ever” in a heartfelt tribute, which read: “We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Nottingham Forest legend and dear friend, John Robertson.

“A true great of our Club and a double European Cup winner, John’s unrivalled talent, humility and unwavering devotion to Nottingham Forest will never ever be forgotten.

“Our thoughts are with John’s family, friends and all who loved him. Rest in peace, Robbo… Our greatest.”

Celtic said in a statement: “Celtic Football Club is sad to learn of the passing of our former assistant manager, John Robertson. Our thoughts and prayers are with John’s family today at such a difficult time for them all.”

Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton, who was coached by Robertson, described him as a mentor to him. He said: “Very sad news, John Robertson passing away.

“John was an incredible player, a genius, a legend, a sharp-witted, funny man, a great friend and mentor to me and we will all miss him greatly.

“Thoughts and love and prayers go out to Sharyl and the Robertson family.”

Another ex-Hoops ace who worked with him, Alan Thompson, said: “Just heard the devastating news that my ex assistant manager at Celtic John Robertson passed earlier today.

“Thoughts are with his lovely family and thoughts and prayers are with them all.”

Derby County said in a statement: “It is with great sadness that Derby County has learned of the passing of its former player John Robertson at the age of 72.

“Robertson spent the 1983/84 and 1984/85 seasons with the Rams.

“Derby County’s deepest condolences and thoughts are with John’s family and friends.”

The Scotland national team posted: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of John Robertson, following his passing today.

“Capped 28 times, Robertson was also a double European Cup winner with Nottingham Forest.”

Fans also shared their condolences on social media.

Robertson was a key man in Nigel Clough’s all-conquering Forest sideCredit: EMPICS Sport

One Forest supporter wrote: “My favourite player and a true #nffc legend. Truly sad news but at least John can now sleep easy.

“I am so sad I never got to meet one of my heroes.

“Rest in peace Robbo.”

Another said: “The club’s greatest ever player.

“Unfortunately never got to see him play in the flesh, but the highlights and words of supporters for whose childhoods were made by this man, is enough to give him that title.

“John Robertson, a true legend. May he rest in peace.”

A third called for a stand to be renamed in his honour at the City Ground, saying: Hopefully the Bridgford Stand will be renamed the John Robertson Stand.”

And a fourth said: “Absolutely gutted. My favourite player by a country mile. Rest easy John.”

Before a fifth said: “RIP Robbo there will never be another left winger like him.”

While a Celtic fan said: “Ahh that’s sad, part of my favourite Celtic era. RIP John Robertson.”

Robertson became a coach for Celtic under Martin O’NeillCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd

He was part of the Scotland squad at the 1978 and 1982 World CupsCredit: Getty Images

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