Nottingham Forest Icon John Robertson Enters Guinness World Records as Best Winger of All Time
By Daniel Hughes | June 10, 2025
In a move that cements one of football’s most enduring legacies, John Robertson, the legendary Nottingham Forest winger, has officially entered the Guinness World Records as the Best Winger of All Time. The announcement, made in a ceremony at the City Ground in Nottingham, sent waves of pride and nostalgia through the footballing world, particularly among fans who witnessed Forest’s golden era during the late 1970s and early 1980s.
A Tribute Long Overdue
Often described as “shy off the pitch, deadly on it,” Robertson’s place in football history has long been revered by diehard supporters and historians alike. Now, Guinness World Records has made it official — recognizing his unique blend of skill, intelligence, and consistency that transformed Nottingham Forest from underdogs into European champions.
Speaking at the ceremony, Guinness adjudicator Thomas Elkington said:
“This recognition is based not on just statistics, but on impact. John Robertson’s influence on the pitch — particularly from the left wing — changed the course of footballing history. His performance in critical matches, especially in European competitions, is unmatched in terms of consistency, creativity, and game-changing moments.”
The Glory Years at Nottingham Forest
Robertson’s career, most notably with Nottingham Forest under the legendary Brian Clough, reached its peak between 1977 and 1983. During this time, he helped lead the club to:
- The First Division title in 1977–78
- Two consecutive European Cup wins in 1979 and 1980
- Two League Cups
- One UEFA Super Cup
He was the creative engine behind those achievements — a winger not defined by pace, but by unparalleled vision, balance, and the uncanny ability to deliver the perfect ball under pressure.
In Forest’s 1979 European Cup Final victory over Malmö, it was Robertson who provided the assist for Trevor Francis’s winning goal. A year later, in the 1980 final against Hamburg, it was Robertson who scored the only goal, calmly slotting the ball past the keeper to secure Forest’s second consecutive European title.
A Style All His Own
Unlike many of the modern wide players who rely on speed and athleticism, Robertson was a master of simplicity and subtlety. With an unassuming frame and a calm demeanor, he often lulled defenders into complacency before unlocking defences with an inch-perfect pass or a clever feint.
Brian Clough once famously said of him:
“John Robertson was a genius with a ball at his feet. Give him a yard of grass and he’ll kill you.”
That quote is now immortalized on a commemorative plaque unveiled alongside the Guinness certificate at the City Ground.
Global Recognition
Guinness’s decision followed a global polling process involving former players, coaches, journalists, and football fans across five continents. Metrics used included technical ability, match influence, consistency, trophies won, and fan legacy. Robertson topped a shortlist that included global icons like Ryan Giggs, Garrincha, George Best, Arjen Robben, and Cristiano Ronaldo (in his early winger years).
Football historian Dr. Laura Jenkins summarized the panel’s decision:
“What Robertson lacked in flash, he more than made up for in football intelligence. He was the winger’s winger — the man who could turn a game with a subtle pass, a delayed run, or a cool finish. His football IQ was decades ahead of its time.”
Reaction from the Football World
Tributes came flooding in following the announcement.
- Former teammate Martin O’Neill said: “There was no one like Robbo. You’d give him the ball and trust that something special would happen.”
- Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espírito Santo called the award “a proud moment for the club and a reminder of the greatness in our history.”
- Fans took to social media with the hashtag #RobboGOAT, sharing clips of his dazzling performances and recalling his calm, workmanlike demeanor that belied his brilliance.
Even rival clubs joined in the praise. A statement from Liverpool FC read: “John Robertson was one of the most difficult opponents our great teams of the ’70s and ’80s faced. A worthy legend.”
A Quiet Man, A Loud Legacy
True to form, Robertson appeared humbled by the recognition. Now 71 and enjoying retirement in quiet dignity, he spoke briefly at the ceremony.
“I never played for records or titles. I just wanted to do my best for the team. This honor means the world to me, but more so because it brings joy to Forest supporters and reminds everyone what we achieved together.”
His speech ended to a standing ovation from a packed City Ground crowd, including several members of the 1979 and 1980 European Cup-winning squads.
Preserving the Legacy
Nottingham Forest has confirmed that a permanent display in Robertson’s honor will be added to the club museum, including his Guinness certificate, match-worn shirts, and video displays of his greatest moments.
Additionally, the city of Nottingham is reportedly considering renaming a portion of the embankment near the stadium to “Robertson Way”, a move enthusiastically backed by local fans and city council members.
Conclusion
In a sport that often glorifies flamboyance, John Robertson’s recognition as the Best Winger of All Time by Guinness World Records is a powerful tribute to elegance, intelligence, and loyalty. His story is a reminder that greatness doesn’t always roar — sometimes, it simply glides past you on the left wing and delivers a perfect cross.
John Robertson didn’t just play football — he changed it, one precise pass at a time.
Byline:
Daniel Hughes is a senior football writer and lifelong Nottingham Forest supporter. He has authored three books on the club’s history, including “Red Rising: The Clough Years at Forest.”
