Ludek Miklosko dead: West Ham and English Premier League legend loses lengthy cancer battle aged 64
The former Czechoslovakia goal-keeper made 373 appearances for his London-based club in the ‘90s.
Former West Ham and English Premier League football legend Ludek Miklosko has died aged 64.
The former West Ham and Czechoslovakian goal-keeper succumbed to the cancer following a battle which started in 2021 when a small tumour was detected on his hip.
The Sun reported that after several other growths were found, Miklosko opted against chemotherapy in order to maintain his quality of life.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.His long term English club West Ham shared an online statement from his son announcing the “passing of my Dad Ludek, following a brave and courageous battle with cancer.”
“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,” the statement from Martin Miklosko read on Monday.
“We know that the many messages and wishes from his former team-mates 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.”
West Ham, which was relegated from the English top flight in the 2025-2026 season, also posted a tribute to Miklosko on Monday.
“Everyone at West Ham United is deeply saddened by the passing of Ludek Miklosko at the age of 64, following a courageous battle with cancer,” it read.
“The hugely popular former goalkeeper, known fondly as ‘Ludo’ to the Claret and Blue Army, made 373 appearances for the Club during eight years as No1 between 1990 and 1997.
“The incredible impact he had on the Club and the fondness with which he is remembered is heard every matchday, when supporters sing his iconic ‘My name is Ludek Miklosko, I come from near Moscow, I play in goal for West Ham’ chant.”
Miklosko made his last trip to West Ham’s London Stadium in late 2024 for an EPL clash with Liverpool. It followed his announcement that he had decided to end his chemotherapy treatment.
The club is set to pay tribute to Miklosko on Tuesday night during its clash with Fulham at London Stadium.
