West Ham legend Ludek Miklosko dies aged 64 after cancer battle

English football is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved goalkeepers. Ludek Miklosko, a true West Ham United icon, has died at the age of 64 after a courageous battle with cancer. The Czech shot-stopper, who guarded the Hammers' net for nearly a decade, had announced in December 2024 his decision to stop further cancer treatment, three years after his diagnosis.

• Ludek Miklosko died aged 64 after fighting cancer for more than three years.
• He made nearly 400 appearances for West Ham between 1990 and 1998, helping the club win promotion twice.
• In December 2024 he announced he was withdrawing from further cancer treatment.
• West Ham will pay tribute to him during the Carabao Cup match against Fulham and the Championship game against QPR.
• His son Martin thanked fans for their support and said his father simply loved West Ham United.

Ludek Miklosko's career: from Banik Ostrava to West Ham icon

Miklosko arrived at West Ham from Banik Ostrava and quickly established himself as a key figure in the London side. Between 1990 and 1998 he racked up nearly 400 official appearances, a tally that places him among the most prominent goalkeepers in the club's history. His consistency between the posts and his charisma earned him the affection of a fanbase that kept singing his name long after his departure.

During his time at Upton Park, the goalkeeper helped the team secure promotion to the top flight of English football on two occasions. The first came in 1991 and the second in 1993, cementing West Ham's status as a First Division club. After leaving the Hammers, Miklosko ended his playing career at Queens Park Rangers.

West Ham pays tribute to its 'gentle giant' with an emotional statement

The London club confirmed the news through an official statement expressing deep sorrow at the loss of the former goalkeeper and later goalkeeping coach. The club described Miklosko as a legendary and inspirational shot-stopper, calling him a "gentle giant of a man" who left an indelible mark on the institution.

Rest in peace Ludek, our beloved, inspirational goalkeeper and gentle giant of a man.

His son Martin's message: "Dad simply loved West Ham United"

Through the club's official channels, his son Martin Miklosko shared a message on behalf of the entire family. He thanked fans and everyone at West Ham United for the kind wishes, thoughts and prayers sent to his father during his illness. He explained that those messages were a huge source of comfort and gave him the strength to keep fighting for as long as he could.

Martin highlighted the special bond between his father, the club and its people. "Dad simply loved West Ham United, and especially hearing his name sung loud and proud at every game," he wrote. The family said the club and its supporters are part of their own family, and always will be.

Czechoslovakia international at the 1990 World Cup in Italy

Beyond his career in England, Miklosko represented Czechoslovakia at the 1990 World Cup held in Italy. That national team reached the quarter-finals of the tournament, where they fell to West Germany, who would go on to become champions. His presence at the World Cup confirmed his status as one of the standout Czech goalkeepers of his generation.

West Ham to honour Miklosko at upcoming home matches

West Ham will pay tribute to Miklosko with a period of appreciation during the Carabao Cup third-round match against Fulham on Tuesday. The following home game for the club's side in the Sky Bet Championship, against Queens Park Rangers on Friday, 9 October, will also be dedicated to his memory.

The legacy of a goalkeeper who won over the fans forever

Miklosko's figure transcended the purely sporting realm. His commitment over nearly a decade wearing the West Ham shirt made him a symbol for several generations of supporters. After hanging up his gloves he returned to the club as a goalkeeping coach, completing a circle that reaffirmed his deep commitment to the institution.

News of his passing has sparked a wave of reactions across English football, where he was remembered as an exemplary professional and a well-liked figure in every dressing room he entered. His name will continue to echo from the stands of a stadium that never stopped singing it.