The goalkeeper who became a West Ham legend and a footballing icon
In short: From a youth scouted in his hometown to a Premier League stalwart, Luděk Mikloško's career spanned continents and eras. He was more than just a shot-stopper; he was a vital component of West Ham United's history, eventually returning to the club to shape the next generation of keepers.
Born in Prostějov on 9 December 1961, Mikloško's journey began in Němčice nad Hanou, where he was scouted for a local youth league at age 13. After developing his skills with RH Cheb and Baník Ostrava, he moved to England in late 1989. Following a trial in December, he signed for West Ham United in February 1990 for approximately £300,000 under manager Lou Macari.
His impact was immediate. After replacing Phil Parkes following a heavy League Cup semi-final defeat, Mikloško became the club's primary goalkeeper until the 1997–98 season. He was a standout performer during the 1990–91 season, helping the club secure promotion from the Second Division and earning the Hammer of the Year award. His notable performances included a Man of the Match display against Manchester United during the 1994–95 season, a match that inadvertently aided Blackburn Rovers in their title race.
On the international stage, Mikloško was a significant figure for Czechoslovakia, earning 40 caps and competing in the 1990 FIFA World Cup. He also earned two caps for the Czech Republic. Beyond his playing days, he transitioned into coaching, serving as West Ham's goalkeeping coach until March 2010. His life was marked by resilience; even while battling stomach cancer, he remained dedicated to the sport, working as a sporting director at Baník Ostrava until his passing on 14 September 2026.
Mikloško's legacy is defined by his longevity and his deep connection to the clubs he served, particularly West Ham United, where he remained a devoted supporter throughout his life.
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