West Ham lost one of their legends today when it was announced former goalkeeper Ludek Miklosko had died at the young age of 64.
Amongst the glowing tributes from fans and former players, the Hammers’ current Sporting Director – former captain Mark Noble has shared an insight on the effect Ludo had on him, and those around him, in his early days at West Ham.
Noble, speaking to the whufc.com website:
“I remember spending so much time with Ludo on the training field when I was coming through as an Academy boy and then getting into the first team. He was just a legend.
He had a real effect on me in my career with just being around him coming through in the Academy and moving into the first team because he was someone I could look up to.
I remember training with him and watching him train. He was really firm and strong when he was in training, but then as soon as you had him off the training pitch, he was just a great man. He always wanted to help everyone.”
In happier times: Goal keeping Coach Ludo carrying a stricken Jimmy Walker around Cardiff in a victory lap after the Championship playoff final in 2005
West Ham have announced have announced that tributes will be paid to Miklosko ahead of Tuesday night’s Carling Cup fixture against Fulham, and also that the home EFL Championship fixture against Queens Park Rangers on Friday 9 October will be dedicated to Luděk’s memory.
As Noble summed up:
“Ludo gave so much of his life to football and especially to West Ham. It’s a sad day for everyone involved with the Club….know he will get the send-off he deserves because he really is a legend and the world has lost one of the good people.”
I remember being in the crowd just after we’d signed him and he was bought out and introduced to the fans. He was a top player and I just was taken aback by the absolute bombs he used to launch up the pitch. A sad day for everyone linked to the club
Allways remember his kicking from hand had to throtle back to avoid going into the stands
I was very fortunate to have spoken to him at Chadwell Health over a 6yr period whilst my son was at the academy. He was one of hell of a man. Always smiling happy to talk to people truly one of the best.
Absolutely gutted to hear he has passed at such a young age.
I for one will always cherish the memories he gave us on the pitch as well as his love for the club of it . God bless Ludo
Such a sad day to lose an Irons legend. Never met the man, but watched some of his 400 games in a West Ham shirt, and he epitomised everything great about our club – skill, heart, spirit, and a love for the fans. You were a great man Ludo – RIP and thanks.