Former West Ham goalkeeper Ludek Miklosko, who famously denied Man Utd league title, dies

Former West Ham goalkeeper Ludek Miklosko has died after a battle with cancer, the club has said.

The Czech Republic keeper, who was 64, made more than 300 appearances for the Hammers across two spells between 1990 and 1998 after joining from Banik Ostrava, Sky Sports said.

Diagnosed with cancer in 2021, he announced that he was withdrawing from treatment two years ago.

Miklosko helped the east London club win promotion to the top division in 1991 and 1993 and was much loved by supporters, who sang his name long after he left. He later returned as a goalkeeping coach.

West Ham said: "It is with deep and profound sadness, 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."

In a statement shared by the club on its website, his son Martin Miklosko said the family was "heartbroken to announce the passing of my dad, Ludek, following a brave and courageous battle with cancer".

He thanked fans and club for "the kind wishes, thoughts and prayers that were sent to my dad during his illness".

He added: "We know that the many messages and wishes from his former teammates 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."

"Proper hero" and "absolute legend" were among the responses to West Ham's post marking his death on X, while another described him as "a brilliant goalie but an even better person".

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Miklosko, who was part of the Czechoslovakia squad for the 1990 World Cup, ended his playing career with QPR.

He was instrumental in denying Manchester United the Premier League title in May 1995, producing a series of saves as the defending champions were held to a draw on the final day of the season, allowing Blackburn Rovers to finish top.

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.

(c) Sky News 2026: Former West Ham goalkeeper Ludek Miklosko, who famously denied Man Utd league title, dies