Former West Ham goalkeeper Ludek Miklosko dies, aged 64 | OneFootball

Ex-Czech international was had been fighting cancer

West Ham have announced the passing of legendary former goalkeeper Ludek Miklosko after a battle with cancer.

The 64-year-old was diagnosed in 2021 and announced his decision to withdraw from treatment in December 2024.

Miklosko made 373 appearances for the Irons and following his retirement he worked as the club’s goalkeeping coach before leaving in 2010.

After a successful trial, the former Czech international moved to east London from Banik Ostrava for a fee in the region of £300,000 in February 1990 and quickly established himself as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper.

Club legend: Ludek Miklosko

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He played a vital role, and was named the club’s player of the year, as West Ham were promoted to the first division in 1991.

Miklosko’s man of the match performance against Manchester United on the final day of the 1994/95 season helped Blackburn Rovers secure their first and only Premier League title.

While with the Hammers, Miklosko enjoyed two promotions to the English top-flight, and reached the semi-finals of both the FA Cup and Football League Cup.

During a 21 year playing career, Miklosko also played 57 times for QPR, signing permanently for the west London club in 1998 after a successful loan period.

He also made two appearances for the Czech Republic and was called up to the 1990 World Cup squad.

In a statement, West Ham posted on their official website: “The thoughts and sincere condolences of everyone at West Ham United are with Luděk’s family as they come to terms with their loss, and we kindly ask that their privacy is respected at this sad and difficult time.

“A period of appreciation to honour Luděk will be held before kick-off at Tuesday’s Carabao Cup third-round tie against Fulham, and our following home EFL Championship fixture, against Queens Park Rangers on Friday 9 October, will be dedicated to Luděk’s memory. Further tributes will also appear across Club channels in the coming days.

“Rest in peace Luděk, our beloved, inspirational goalkeeper and gentle giant of a man.”