West Ham legend Ludek Miklosko has passed away aged 64.
The Czech goalkeeper, popularly known as ‘Ludo’, died following a battle with cancer.
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The Czech joined West Ham in 1990Credit: Getty
He was first diagnosed in 2021 but chose to withdraw from further cancer treatment three years later.
Miklosko is fondly remembered by Hammers fans having made 373 appearances for the club across an eight-year stint.
Along with his lengthy spell at Upton Park, Miklosko spent three seasons at Queens Park Rangers.
Family thank fans and club
“We are heartbroken to announce the passing of my Dad Luděk, following a brave and courageous battle with cancer,” Martin, his son, said in a statement on behalf of his family.
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“On behalf of my Mum and my family, I would like to sincerely thank the fans and everyone at West Ham United Football Club for the kind wishes, thoughts and prayers that were sent to my Dad during his illness.
“We know that the many messages and wishes from his former teammates and fans alike were a huge sense of comfort to him in his battle with cancer, and gave him the strength to not give up and keep fighting for as long as he could.
“We are heartbroken at his loss, but take huge comfort from the immense support he received from all of you, along with the knowledge that he is now at peace and no longer suffering.
“Dad simply loved West Ham United, and especially hearing his name sung loud and proud at every game. The Club, and its fans, were and always will be a part of our family, so thank you all from the bottom of our hearts.”
Miklosko’s West Ham career at a glance
Miklosko joined the Hammers, who had been relegated to the Second Division, from Czech club Banik Ostrava following a successful trial period in 1989.
He wasted little time in endearing himself to West Ham supporters as he was named Hammer of the Year and earned an inclusion in the PFA Second Division Team of the Year in 1991.
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Miklosko began his career in his native Czechia before embarking on his English adventureCredit: Getty
Over the course of his eight years at the Boleyn Ground, Miklosko won two promotions along with helping the Irons reach both the FA Cup and League Cup semi-finals.
Miklosko also gave legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson nightmares as his iconic performance stopped Manchester United from winning the Premier League in 1995.
He brought the curtain down on his West Ham career when he moved to QPR in 1998 and retired three years later.
It wasn’t long before Miklosko was back with the Hammers, but this time as their goalkeeping coach.
Miklosko remained in the role until 2010, when he then returned home to his native Czechia.
After working with a sports agency helping to develop younger players, Miklosko rejoined Banik as a board member and sporting director.
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The Hammers have announced plans to pay tribute to MikloskoCredit: Getty
West Ham will pay tribute to Miklosko prior to the Hammers’ Carabao Cup third round clash against Fulham on Tuesday.
The Hammers also confirmed their next home Championship fixture against QPR, which takes place on October 9, will be dedicated to Miklosko.