Ludek Miklosko, Former West Ham And QPR Goalkeeper, Dies Aged 64

Former West Ham United and Czech international goalkeeper Ludek Miklosko has died aged 64, five years after being diagnosed with cancer, the English Championship club announced on Monday. Miklosko was a hugely popular figure among West Ham supporters and spent a significant part of his playing career with the London club, making nearly 400 appearances between 1990 and 1997 after joining from Banik Ostrava.

Miklosko played an important role in West Ham’s promotion campaigns, helping the club reach the top flight in 1991 and again in 1993. His performances earned him a lasting place in the affection of supporters, who continued to sing his name regularly even after his departure. He later played for Queens Park Rangers before returning to West Ham in a coaching capacity as a goalkeeping coach.

West Ham confirmed his death in a statement, describing Miklosko as a legendary former goalkeeper and coach. The club paid tribute to him as an inspirational player and a much-loved member of the West Ham community. His former club Banik Ostrava also remembered him as an outstanding goalkeeper and a great personality, underlining the respect he earned during his career.

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Miklosko had been undergoing treatment for cancer after being diagnosed five years ago. In December 2024, he announced that he had decided not to continue with further treatment. He subsequently told Czech media that he had made the decision because he wanted to live a normal life. His family said he had received immense support from West Ham fans during his illness.

His son Martin said the family was heartbroken by his death but took comfort from the support Miklosko received and the knowledge that he was no longer suffering. He recalled his father’s deep affection for West Ham United, particularly the experience of hearing supporters sing his name during matches. Martin also said the club and its fans would always remain part of their family.

Miklosko represented both Czechoslovakia and, later, the Czech Republic during his international career. West Ham said the club would honour his memory with a period of appreciation at Tuesday’s League Cup third-round match against Fulham. His death marks the loss of a goalkeeper remembered not only for his contribution on the field but also for the strong and enduring bond he developed with West Ham supporters.

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