West Ham United have announced the death of legendary former goalkeeper and coach Luděk Mikloško, who has died aged 64 following a battle with cancer.
“It is with deep and profound sadness that West Ham United announces the passing of legendary former goalkeeper and coach, Luděk Mikloško,” the club said in a statement.
“Rest in peace Luděk, our beloved, inspirational goalkeeper and gentle giant of a man.”
Mikloško made almost 400 appearances for the Hammers between 1990 and 1998 after joining the club from Baník Ostrava, establishing himself as a hugely popular figure at Upton Park.
The Czech goalkeeper played a key role as West Ham secured promotion to the top flight in 1991 and again in 1993.
His popularity with supporters endured long after his departure, with fans continuing to sing his name at matches.
Close connection
Mikloško later returned to West Ham as a goalkeeping coach, maintaining his close connection with the club and its supporters.
He was diagnosed with cancer in 2021 and announced in December 2024 that he had decided to withdraw from further treatment.
The Prostějov native also represented Czechoslovakia at the 1990 FIFA World Cup before ending his playing career with Queens Park Rangers.
Courageous battle
Mikloško’s son, Martin, paid tribute to his father in a statement shared by West Ham.
“We are heartbroken to announce the passing of my dad Luděk following a brave and courageous battle with cancer,” he said.
He also thanked West Ham supporters and everyone at the club for the messages, thoughts and prayers sent to his father during his illness, saying they had provided him with “a huge sense of comfort” and the strength to keep fighting.
“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,” Martin added.
“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.”
West Ham will hold a period of appreciation for Mikloško during Tuesday’s Carabao Cup third-round tie against Fulham.
The club’s next home match in the Sky Bet Championship, against QPR on Friday, October 9, will likewise be dedicated to his memory.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Cricket news: England moving in the right direction, says jubilant skipper Joe Root
