Legendary goalkeeper Ludek Miklosko passes away at 64

Ludek Miklosko, the former West Ham United and Czech international goalkeeper, passed away at the age of 64, as announced by the English Championship club on Monday. Miklosko had been diagnosed with cancer five years prior.

He joined West Ham from Banik Ostrava in 1990 and made nearly 400 appearances for the club until 1997, contributing to their promotion to the English top flight in 1991 and 1993. He was beloved by fans, who continued to chant his name long after his departure.

Miklosko returned to West Ham as a goalkeeping coach. In December 2024, he decided to cease further cancer treatment, expressing a desire to “live a normal life.” West Ham United expressed their sorrow in a statement, calling him a "legendary former goalkeeper and coach." His family, including his son Martin, expressed heartbreak over his loss but found comfort in the support he received during his illness.

Miklosko will be honored during a League Cup fixture against Fulham.