14/09/2026
Legendary goalkeeper [*]
Very sad news to report. Former West Ham United goalkeeper Ludek Miklosko has died at the age of 64 following a battle with cancer.
The former Czech Republic and Czechoslovakia international became one of West Ham’s most popular figures during eight years in East London, making almost 400 appearances for the club between 1990 and 1998.
Known affectionately as ‘Ludo’, Miklosko built a bond with the West Ham support that lasted long beyond his playing career. His name continued to be sung from the stands years after he had left the club, and he would later return to West Ham as a goalkeeping coach.
Miklosko had been diagnosed with cancer three years before deciding to withdraw from treatment in December 2024.
Just days after that decision, he made an emotional return to London Stadium for West Ham’s Premier League meeting with Liverpool, receiving a hero’s welcome from the supporters who had followed him throughout his career.
Announcing his death, West Ham said: “It is with deep and profound sadness that West Ham United announces the passing of legendary former goalkeeper and coach, Ludek Miklosko.
“Rest in peace Ludek, our beloved, inspirational goalkeeper and gentle giant of a man.”
His son Martin Miklosko also paid tribute, saying: “We are heartbroken to announce the passing of my dad Ludek, following a brave and courageous battle with cancer.
“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.”
Miklosko arrived at West Ham after spending eight years with Banik Ostrava and quickly established himself as an important figure at the club.
During his first full season, he helped West Ham win promotion to the old First Division in 1990-91 and reach the FA Cup semi-finals. His performances were recognised when he was named Hammer of the Year.
One of the defining moments of his West Ham career came on the final day of the 1994-95 Premier League season. Manchester United travelled to West Ham needing victory to secure the title, but Miklosko produced an outstanding performance as the Hammers held them to a 1-1 draw. The result meant Blackburn Rovers were crowned Premier League champions.
After leaving West Ham in 1998, Miklosko joined QPR, making 57 league appearances between 1998 and 2001 before bringing his playing career to an end.
At international level, he earned 42 caps representing Czechoslovakia and the Czech Republic combined.
His relationship with West Ham remained strong throughout his later life. When the Hammers won the Conference League in Prague in 2023, Miklosko was there and was serenaded by supporters as he completed a lap of the pitch before kick-off.
He later returned to Banik Ostrava, where he eventually became head of the club’s sports department.
West Ham have confirmed that a period of appreciation will be held in Miklosko’s memory before their Carabao Cup third-round match at Fulham on Tuesday.
The club will also dedicate their next home Championship fixture against QPR on 9 October to a goalkeeper whose career connected the two clubs and whose place in West Ham history had been secured long before his death.
![Legendary goalkeeper [*]](https://img4.gyms1.com/940/644/122112284649406445.jpg)
