Death of former Forest goalkeeper

Former Nottingham Forest goalkeeper John Middleton passed away aged 59 on Sunday.

A former England Youth and U21 international, Middleton played 90 games for the Reds between 1974 and 1977, helping the club to promotion to Division One and Anglo-Scottish Cup glory.

But boss Brian Clough replaced him with Peter Shilton and Middleton was sold to Derby County as part of an exchange deal for Scottish midfield ace Archie Gemmill.

He played 73 league games for Derby before being forced to retire due to injury in 1980.

Nottingham Forest were saddened to learn of the recent passing of former player John Middleton,” the Reds said in a statement. “Forest’s thoughts are with John’s loved ones at this sad time.”