Ex-West Ham goalkeeper Miklosko dies at 64

Former West Ham goalkeeper Ludek Miklosko passed away at the age of 64 after a five-year battle with cancer, according to the English Championship club, which announced the news on Monday. Miklosko joined West Ham from Banik Ostrava in 1990 and played nearly 400 matches for the club between 1990 and 1997. He played a pivotal role in West Ham's promotion to the English top flight in 1991 and 1993, earning him a special place in the hearts of fans who continued to sing his name even after he left the club.

Following his retirement, Miklosko returned to West Ham as a goalkeeping coach. In December 2024, he decided to stop further cancer treatment and expressed his desire to "live a normal life." A statement from West Ham read, "It is with deep and profound sadness that West Ham United announces the passing of legendary former goalkeeper and coach, Ludek Miklosko.

Rest in peace Ludek, our beloved, inspirational goalkeeper and gentle giant of a man." Banik also mourned the loss of their former player, describing him as an "outstanding goalkeeper and above all, a great personality." The club has decided to honor Miklosko with a period of appreciation during a League Cup third-round fixture against Fulham.

His son, Martin, expressed the family's devastation at his death but found comfort in the immense support his father received during his illness. He reiterated that West Ham United and its fans had been a part of their family, and thanked everyone for their support. Miklosko represented Czechoslovakia before later playing for the Czech Republic at international level.