Eric Carruthers (born 2 February 1953 in Edinburgh) is a Scottish former footballer who played most notably for Heart of Midlothian. Carruthers began his professional career for Hearts in 1970 and played more than fifty league matches between 1970 and 1975. Carruthers was in 1975 sold by Hearts to English team Derby County for £25,000. His stay at Derby County was largely unsuccessful as he managed only one appearance as a substitute in two seasons. He eventually was released on a free transfer in October 1977.