Ludek Miklosko, the former West Ham United goalkeeper who became a much-loved figure at the London club, has died aged 64, five years after being diagnosed with cancer.
Miklosko joined West Ham from Banik Ostrava in 1990 and spent seven seasons with the club, making 373 appearances between 1990 and 1997. He played a key role in helping West Ham win promotion to the English top flight in 1991 and again in 1993, establishing himself as one of the most respected goalkeepers in the club’s history.
His popularity at Upton Park extended well beyond his years as a player. West Ham supporters continued to sing his name long after he had left the club, while Miklosko later returned to West Ham to work as a goalkeeping coach.
His death follows a long battle with cancer. In December 2024, Miklosko told Czech media that he had decided to stop further treatment, saying he wanted to “live a normal life.”
News of his death prompted tributes from both sides of his football career. West Ham described Miklosko as a “legendary former goalkeeper and coach” and remembered him as an inspirational figure who had left a lasting impression on the club.
“It is with deep and profound sadness that West Ham United announces the passing of legendary former goalkeeper and coach, Ludek Miklosko,” the club said. “Rest in peace Ludek, our beloved, inspirational goalkeeper and gentle giant of a man.”
Banik Ostrava, where Miklosko began his professional career, also paid tribute to him, describing him as an outstanding goalkeeper and, above all, a great personality.
West Ham said Miklosko would be remembered with a dedicated period of appreciation before the club’s League Cup third-round match against Fulham on Tuesday.
For his family, the response from West Ham supporters has provided some comfort during their loss. His son, Martin Miklosko, thanked the club’s supporters for the support they had shown his father throughout his illness.
“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,” Martin said.
He also spoke about his father’s enduring connection with West Ham, saying that Miklosko “simply loved West Ham United” and particularly enjoyed hearing supporters sing his name at matches.
“The club, and its fans, were and always will be a part of our family,” he said.
Miklosko’s career also included a significant international record. He won 40 caps for Czechoslovakia before later representing the Czech Republic.
For West Ham, however, his legacy was built largely on his years between the posts and the relationship he developed with supporters. More than two decades after his final appearance for the club, his name remained part of the songs heard from the stands. His death marks the loss of a goalkeeper whose connection with West Ham endured long after his playing career had ended.
