Former West Ham goalkeeper Ludek Miklosko has died at the age of 64 following a battle with cancer.
Arriving at West Ham from Banik Ostrava, he went on to make nearly 400 appearances for the side between 1990 and 1998.
Three years after receiving his diagnosis, he announced in December 2024 that he was withdrawing from further cancer treatment.
During his time with the club, the Czech player helped secure promotion to the top division in both 1991 and 1993. A popular figure among supporters who continued to sing his name long after his departure, he later returned to the club as a goalkeeping coach.
A club statement said: “It is with deep and profound sadness that West Ham United announces the passing of legendary former goalkeeper and coach, Ludek Miklosko.”
The tribute added: “Rest in peace Ludek, our beloved, inspirational goalkeeper and gentle giant of a man.”
Miklosko, who represented Czechoslovakia at the 1990 World Cup finals, finished his playing career at QPR.
West Ham will pay tribute to Miklosko with a period of appreciation during Tuesday’s Carabao Cup third-round match against Fulham. The club’s following home game in the Sky Bet Championship, against QPR on Friday, October 9, will also be dedicated to his memory.
In a message shared through the club, his son Martin Miklosko said: “We are heartbroken to announce the passing of my Dad Ludek, following a brave and courageous battle with cancer.
“On behalf of my Mum and my family, I would like to sincerely thank the fans and everyone at West Ham United Football Club for the kind wishes, thoughts and prayers that were sent to my Dad during his illness.
“We know that the many messages and wishes from his former team-mates and fans alike were a huge sense of comfort to him in his battle with cancer, and gave him the strength to not give up and keep fighting for as long as he could.
“We are heartbroken at his loss, but take huge comfort from the immense support he received from all of you, along with the knowledge that he is now at peace and no longer suffering.
“Dad simply loved West Ham United, and especially hearing his name sung loud and proud at every game. The club, and its fans, were and always will be a part of our family, so thank you all from the bottom of our hearts.”
