Nottingham Forest confirmed the news on December 25, 2025, saying it was heartbroken by the passing of the club’s former star and close friend.
Robertson joined Forest at just 15 years of age and made his first-team debut two years later. He went on to play a vital role in one of the most successful eras in the club’s history, helping Forest win the First Division title in 1978 before lifting the European Cup in consecutive seasons.
He provided the decisive assist in the 1979 European Cup final and scored the winning goal in the 1980 final, cementing his place among the club’s greatest players, according to Sky News.
At international level, Robertson earned 28 caps for Scotland national football team and represented his country at the 1978 and 1982 FIFA World Cups.
After a brief spell with Derby County, Robertson returned to Forest in 1985, making 12 appearances in his final season before retiring from professional football.
Following retirement, he moved into coaching and worked as an assistant to former Forest teammate Martin O Neill at Celtic and Aston Villa.
In a family statement, Robertson’s relatives said they were devastated by his loss but grateful for the years they shared with him and the memories he left behind. They confirmed he passed away peacefully on Christmas morning after a long illness, surrounded by family.
John Robertson is survived by his daughter, two sons and several grandchildren.
