Former West Ham goalkeeper Ludek Miklosko has died aged 64 following a battle with cancer.
Miklosko made almost 400 appearances for the Hammers between 1990 and 1998 after joining from Banik Ostrava.
He announced his decision to withdraw from further cancer treatment in December 2024, three years after his diagnosis.
The Czech helped West Ham win promotion to the top flight in 1991 and 1993 and was much loved by supporters, who regularly sang his name long after he left the club. He later returned as a goalkeeping coach.
“It is with deep and profound sadness that West Ham United announces the passing of legendary former goalkeeper and coach, Ludek Miklosko,” read a club statement.
“Rest in peace Ludek, our beloved, inspirational goalkeeper and gentle giant of a man.”
Miklosko, who represented Czechoslovakia at the 1990 World Cup, ended his playing career with QPR.
West Ham will hold a period of appreciation to honour him at Tuesday’s Carabao Cup third-round tie against Fulham.
The Hammers’ next home match in the Sky Bet Championship – against QPR on Friday, October 9 – will be dedicated to Miklosko’s memory.
In a statement shared by West Ham, his son Martin Miklosko said: “We are heartbroken to announce 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.
“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.”