Nottingham Forest: A Historic Rise and Their Greatest Legends

Nottingham Forest: A Historic Rise and Their Greatest Legends

Nottingham Forest have emerged as one of the surprise packages in the 2024/25 Premier League season, securing a coveted European spot ahead of several high-spending rivals. With a proud legacy that includes two European Cup triumphs in 1979 and 1980 under the legendary Brian Clough, Forest’s resurgence has reignited memories of a golden era shaped by iconic figures both on and off the pitch.

Founded in 1865, Forest are one of England’s oldest football clubs and have consistently produced or nurtured some of the most captivating talents in the domestic game. These players have etched their names into club folklore, earning the adoration of fans with unforgettable performances. While some spent their entire careers at the City Ground, others made a lasting impact during shorter stints.

Among the most revered is Stuart Pearce, who not only spent 12 years at the club but also briefly managed the side. Widely regarded as one of Forest’s all-time greats, Pearce won four major trophies and embodied the spirit of the club. Yet, he is just one of many who helped shape Forest’s storied past.

With that in mind, here is a ranking of the greatest Nottingham Forest players in history, based on the following criteria:

Ranking Criteria:

Impact at the club: Contribution and influence during their tenure.

Memorable moments: Key goals, performances, or match-winning saves.

Legendary status: Continued fan reverence and legacy at the City Ground.

Trophies won: Domestic and European silverware.



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Greatest Nottingham Forest Players of All Time

Rank Name Years at Forest Appearances

1 John Robertson 1970–1983, 1985–1986 514
2 Stuart Pearce 1985–1997 522
3 Des Walker 1984–1992, 2002–2005 408
4 John McGovern 1974–1981 335
5 Peter Shilton 1977–1981 272
6 Kenny Burns 1977–1981 196
7 Trevor Francis 1979–1981 93
8 Viv Anderson 1974–1983 425
9 Martin O’Neill 1971–1980 371
10 Ian Storey-Moore 1962–1972 —



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10. Ian Storey-Moore (1962–1972)
A prolific striker during the 1960s, Storey-Moore scored over 100 goals for Forest. He starred in the club’s memorable 1966/67 season, where they narrowly missed out on the First Division title and reached the FA Cup semi-finals. His standout performance came in the quarter-final against Everton, where his hat-trick sealed a dramatic 3-2 win. He departed in 1972, having netted 118 goals for Forest.

9. Martin O’Neill (1971–1980)
O’Neill was a vital part of Brian Clough’s successful side, claiming eight major trophies including back-to-back European Cups in 1979 and 1980. He returned briefly as Forest manager in 2019 but was dismissed after a short stint. Nonetheless, his achievements as a player remain unforgettable.

8. Viv Anderson (1974–1983)
The first Black footballer to play for England, Anderson was a key figure in Forest’s domestic and European success. A reliable right-back with 425 appearances, he played in both European Cup-winning campaigns and left an indelible mark on club and national history.

7. Trevor Francis (1979–1981)
Britain’s first £1 million player, Francis scored the decisive goal in the 1979 European Cup final. Despite injuries and being played out of position, his contributions to Forest’s continental triumphs are historic. He left the club in 1981 but remains a legendary figure.

6. Kenny Burns (1977–1981)
Burns was instrumental in Forest’s rise to the top, winning the club’s Player of the Year award twice. A converted defender, he was key to their defensive strength during the 1977/78 title-winning season. He amassed seven trophies before moving to Leeds United in 1981.

5. Peter Shilton (1977–1981)
Arguably England’s greatest goalkeeper, Shilton was a rock at the back during Forest’s golden years. He conceded just 18 goals in the 1977/78 league campaign and kept clean sheets in both European Cup finals. His five-year spell brought seven major trophies to the club.

4. John McGovern (1974–1981)
McGovern captained Forest through their most successful era, leading them to two European Cups. A hardworking midfielder, he made 335 appearances and now serves as a club ambassador, with the new ‘McGovern’s Lounge’ at the City Ground named in his honour.

3. Des Walker (1984–1992, 2002–2005)
Famed for his pace and defensive prowess, Walker was a fan favorite during his two spells at the club. He won five of seven cup finals at Wembley and earned Player of the Year honors three times. Forest fans still chant “You’ll never beat Des Walker” in his honor.

2. Stuart Pearce (1985–1997)
The passionate and fearless left-back, dubbed “Psycho,” embodied Forest’s spirit. Pearce lifted four trophies and was a three-time Player of the Year. His managerial return in 2014 was brief, but his legacy as a player remains unquestioned.

1. John Robertson (1970–1983, 1985–1986)
The creative heart of Clough’s side, Robertson was instrumental in both European Cup victories. Renowned for his dribbling and consistency, he scored the winning goal in the 1980 final. With over 500 appearances and countless match-winning moments, Robertson is rightly regarded as the greatest player in Forest’s history.