BREAKING: Ex-West Ham Goalkeeper Ludek Miklosko D!es At 64 After Cancer Battle

Former West Ham United and Czech international goalkeeper Ludek Miklosko has died at the age of 64, five years after he was diagnosed with cancer.

News of his death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from West Ham supporters, former teammates and the wider football community, with the club remembering him as a legendary goalkeeper, coach and much-loved figure.

Miklosko joined West Ham from Banik Ostrava in 1990 and spent seven years with the London club. During his time at Upton Park, he made 373 appearances between 1990 and 1997.

The goalkeeper played a key role in helping the Hammers secure promotion to the English top flight in 1991 and 1993, earning a special place in the hearts of West Ham supporters. His name continued to be sung by fans long after his playing career ended.

Following his retirement from professional football, Miklosko returned to West Ham, where he worked as the club’s goalkeeping coach.

In December 2024, Miklosko revealed that he had decided to stop further cancer treatment, telling Czech media that he wanted to “live a normal life.”

West Ham paid tribute to their former player in an emotional statement, saying the club was deeply saddened by his passing.

“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.”

His former club, Banik Ostrava, also honoured Miklosko, describing him as an outstanding goalkeeper and, above all, a great personality.

West Ham has announced plans to honour Miklosko with a special period of appreciation before Tuesday’s League Cup third-round fixture against Fulham.

His son, Martin Miklosko, expressed gratitude to the football community for the overwhelming support shown to the family throughout his father’s 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,” he said.

Martin added that his father had a deep love for West Ham United, particularly the experience of hearing supporters sing his name during matches.

“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,” he said.

At international level, Miklosko earned 40 caps for Czechoslovakia before later representing the Czech Republic.

His death marks the end of the life and career of a goalkeeper who became an enduring figure in West Ham’s history and remained deeply connected to the club and its supporters until his final years.