John Robertson was a much revered, celebrated winger, best known for his time at Nottingham Forest and the Scotland national team. He died on Christmas morning at the age of 72 following a long illness. Early life Robertson was born on 20 January 1953 in Uddingston, a town in Lanarkshire just outside Glasgow. With an incredible career spanning over 100 years, he left behind a legacy that changed the face of football forever.
Growing up in a working-class family, Robertson’s father, Hughie, was a former miner who later worked with the electricity board, while his mother was employed at the local Tunnock’s biscuit factory. Those hard, simple beginnings were the forge that shaped the character, work ethic and honesty of the man. Robertson was signed by Nottingham Forest at the age of 15. It was the first step on a miraculous journey that would take him to the heights of his sport.
At only 17, Robertson made his first appearance for Nottingham Forest. Once there, he quickly established himself as one of the great players during the reign of legendary manager Brian Clough. He made a significant impact on the team’s success earning the First Division league title in 1978. His mercurial genius and tireless work rate were pivotal to the club’s consecutive European Cup triumphs in 79 and 80. These accomplishments of brilliance made him a footballing icon.
Robertson was immensely successful with his club. He did his country proud, making 28 international appearances for Scotland in a golden five-year spell. He played in the World Cups of 1978 and 1982. One of his best moments was when he scored the winning goal to New Zealand in 1982. His contributions to Scottish football were appreciated while he was alive, and he was a popular figure among fans.
In 1981, Robertson scored a stunning winner at Wembley, underlining his capacity to shine on the grandest stages. Following his three year period at Nottingham Forest, Parker signed for local rivals Derby County in 1983. He came back to Forest in 1985 for one last season, clocking up 12 appearances before being released.
The transformative effect of manager Brian Clough on Robertson’s career can hardly be overstated. The two developed a strong relationship over their year together at Forest. Clough recognized Robertson’s unique qualities and emphasized his importance to the team’s success.
“He was a special (coaching) partner, no question about that,” – Martin O’Neill
O’Neill, who played next to Robertson on many occasions, thought about the deep impact that he had on fans.
“People, for want of a better phrase, bought into John, they really did. There was something about him.” – Martin O’Neill
Robertson’s love for the beautiful game went far beyond his time on the pitch. His passion for the sport never faded, even post-retirement. Therefore, he sometimes shared just how intricately tied a relationship football became with his core identity.
“When I was the recipient I could have done cartwheels. The day I stopped playing for the gaffer, it seemed there was a huge void in my life.” – John Robertson
His death has left an unfillable void for everyone who loved and respected him. He was more than just an extraordinarily gifted player – he was an extraordinary person. Fans and fellow professionals alike are flooding social media with tributes. In doing so, they are celebrating his important, game-changing contributions to the sport, and the impactful legacy he leaves behind.
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