Former Nottingham Forest star John Robertson dies 'peacefully' aged 72

Former Nottingham Forest and Scotland winger John Robertson has died at the age of 72.

Robertson became a cult hero at Forest after playing an integral part in the club's European Cup victories in 1979 and 1980.

"We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Nottingham Forest legend and dear friend, John Robertson," said a statement from Forest.

"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."

Robertson won 28 caps for Scotland during his five-year international career, which included being selected at the 1978 and 1982 World Cups.

A statement from the Scotland team read: "Our thoughts are with the family and friends of John Robertson, following his passing today."

Lanarkshire-born Robertson signed for Forest aged 15, making his debut when he was just 17.

He became a key player as Forest won the First Division league title in 1978 before back-to-back European Cup triumphs.

Robertson also won the League Cup twice with Forest, before briefly joining Derby in 1983 for two years.

After two years at Derby, Robertson returned to Forest in 1985, playing 12 times in his final season before being released.

Following his retirement, Robertson moved into coaching as an assistant at Celtic and Aston Villa.

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"It is with immense pain and sadness that we announce the passing of our wonderful husband, dad and grandad," said his family in a statement.

"John passed away peacefully on Christmas morning with his wife and family by his side, after a long illness.

"Our only comfort in our grief is that his struggles are now over, and he is reunited with his daughter Jessica.

"'Robbo' was treasured by many as a footballing hero, but to us he was just John and dad, the family man… kind, loving, witty, fun and loyal.

"Although our hearts are breaking, we will always be grateful for the years we were privileged to share with him and the amazing memories we made. We will miss him every day and love him always.

"John leaves wife Sharyl, daughter Liz and sons Andrew and Mark, as well as granddaughters Jess and Phoebe."

Robertson was born on 20 January 1953 and brought up in Uddingston, a Lanarkshire town just outside Glasgow, living in the same Viewpark area as another great Scottish winger, Jimmy Johnstone.

The youngest of three children, his father, Hughie, was a former miner who worked with the electricity board, and his mother worked at the local Tunnock's biscuit factory.

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