'Big Ludo' - trailblazing keeper who became West Ham cult figure
Summary
Ludek Miklosko, a former West Ham goalkeeper known for his strong performances and popularity with fans, has died at the age of 64. He played more than 350 games for West Ham and was the first professional football player from Czechoslovakia to join an English club.Key Facts
- Ludek Miklosko played as a goalkeeper for West Ham from 1990 to 1998, appearing 374 times.
- He was born in Prostejov, Czech Republic, and won 42 international caps, including for the Czech Republic after Czechoslovakia split.
- Miklosko was the first player from Czechoslovakia to join an English club.
- He became a fan favorite, inspiring chants and being named Hammer of the Year in 1991.
- One of his most famous matches was in 1995 when he helped West Ham stop Manchester United from winning the Premier League title.
- After retiring as a player, he worked as a goalkeeping coach and later as sporting director for his original club, Banik Ostrava.
- Miklosko was diagnosed with cancer, stopped treatment in late 2024, and died shortly after at 64 years old.
- He received a warm welcome when he returned to West Ham for a match just days before his death.
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