Football

West Ham Mourns Passing of Legendary Goalkeeper Ludek Miklosko

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Sep 14, 2026, 16:36 IST

Former West Ham United and Czech international goalkeeper Ludek Miklosko has passed away at the age of 64. The club will honour the beloved former player during their upcoming League Cup fixture.

West Ham Mourns Passing of Legendary Goalkeeper Ludek Miklosko

West Ham United has announced the death of former goalkeeper Ludek Miklosko at the age of 64. The Czech international, who became a cult hero during his time in East London, passed away five years after being diagnosed with cancer.

The club confirmed the news on Monday, paying tribute to a man they described as an inspirational figure and a gentle giant. Miklosko had previously revealed to Czech media in 2024 that he had decided to cease his cancer treatment in order to focus on living a normal life during his final months.

A Legacy at West Ham United

Joining the Hammers from Banik Ostrava in 1990, Miklosko went on to make nearly 400 appearances for the club over a seven-year period. His tenure was marked by significant success, most notably helping the team secure promotion to the top flight of English football on two separate occasions, in 1991 and 1993. Following his departure from West Ham in 1997, he enjoyed a spell with Queens Park Rangers before eventually returning to the Hammers in a coaching capacity.

His impact on the club extended far beyond his statistics. Miklosko remained a firm favourite among the fanbase, with supporters frequently chanting his name at matches long after his playing days had concluded. In a statement released through the club, his son, Martin, expressed the family's gratitude for the support shown to his father, noting that the former goalkeeper held a deep affection for the club and its supporters.

Honouring a Club Icon

In recognition of his contributions, West Ham United has confirmed that they will hold a period of appreciation for Miklosko during their League Cup third-round match against Fulham on Tuesday. The gesture serves as a final tribute to a player who left an indelible mark on the club's history.

Tributes have also arrived from his former club, Banik Ostrava, who remembered him as an outstanding goalkeeper and a great personality. Miklosko represented both Czechoslovakia and the Czech Republic on the international stage, cementing his status as one of the most respected goalkeepers of his era.