Perhaps it was written in the stars for the current Mansfield Town manager having been the son of one of the game’s true icons.
Cloughie made it to the very top of the game as a playing, making 311 appearances for Forest and another 39 for Liverpool. That career also won 14 England caps between 1989 and 1993.
He ended his playing career with 227 games for Burton Albion over 10 seasons. before managing the Brewers for 11 seasons.
Here we look back on Cloughie’s proud career.
1. Chelsea v Forest
Nigel Clough hugs a team mate during a Barclays League Division One match against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea won the match 6-2. Photo: Simon Bruty
2. Tottenham Hotspur v Forest
Nigel Clough pulls away from Vinny Samways during a league Division One match between Tottenham Hotspur and Nottingham Forest on January 15, 1989. Photo: Getty Images
3. Zenith Data Cup final
Nigel Clough is tackled by Kevin Moore during the Zenith Data Cup final at Wembley Stadium on 29 Mar 1992. Forest won the match 3-2. Photo: Shaun Botterill
4. Chelsea v Forest
Nigel Clough in action against Chelsea in 1988. Chelsea won the match 4-3. Photo: Simon Bruty