![Iklan](https://elskynews.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Altimet-RidhuanTee-LaguRaya-LaguRayaModen-HiburanMalaysia-SelebritiMalaysia-TrendingMalaysia-ViralMalaysia-MusicMalaysia-EntertainmentNews-1.png")
LONDON, El Sky News – The football community is in mourning following the passing of John Robertson, the legendary Scottish winger often described as the creative heartbeat of Nottingham Forest’s golden era. Robertson passed away on Thursday at the age of 72.
Known for his exceptional technical ability, Robertson was famously dubbed the “Picasso of Football” by his former manager, the late Brian Clough. His passing marks the end of an era for a player who rose from the brink of being released to becoming one of the most decorated figures in British football history.
A Legacy of European Glory Robertson’s name is forever etched in folklore for his pivotal role in Nottingham Forest’s back-to-back European Cup triumphs. In 1979, his pinpoint cross set up Trevor Francis for the winning goal against Malmo. A year later, Robertson took center stage himself, scoring the decisive goal in a -1-0 victory over Hamburg to retain the prestigious trophy.
During his tenure at the City Ground, he made 243 consecutive appearances between 1976 and 1980, helping the club secure a First Division title, two League Cups, and a UEFA Super Cup.
International and Coaching Career On the international stage, Robertson earned 28 caps for Scotland. He is fondly remembered for scoring the winning penalty against England in 1981 and finding the net during the 1982 World Cup clash against New Zealand.
After hanging up his boots, Robertson transitioned into a highly successful coaching career. Serving as the long-term assistant to Martin O’Neill, he played a vital role in the resurgence of Leicester City and a trophy-laden era at Celtic, which included three Scottish Premier League titles and a UEFA Cup final appearance.
Tributes Pour In Tributes have flooded in from former teammates and fans alike, many of whom regard him as the greatest player to ever wear a Nottingham Forest shirt—a sentiment backed by a 2015 poll where he was voted the club’s all-time fan favorite.
Robertson is survived by his family and a lasting legacy as a true artist of the game. His vision on the pitch and his contribution to the sport’s history ensure that the “Picasso of Football” will never be forgotten.
