By Kris Gonzo | Senior West Ham Columnist (Follow on X)
West Ham fans have got a big chance on Friday night to say farewell to a Hammers legend who plays a large part in everyone’s West Ham story.
Even if you didn’t get to see Luděk Mikloško play football, you’ve probably sung about him.
And when the chant begins of “Oi, big boy, what’s your name?”, it’s a chance for every Hammers fan to remember an incredible member of the West Ham family. Someone who we sing about coming from “near Moscow”, but very much ended up a Cockney.
Friday night is for Ludo
West Ham have announced details of Friday night’s tribute ahead of the Championship game against QPR, with Ludo’s family and former team-mates involved in a pre-match ceremony.
There will be fan-led displays in the Billy Bonds and Bobby Moore Stands, as well as a special video tribute on the big screens.
The club has asked supporters to be in their seats by 7.45pm at the latest.
Ludo made 373 appearances for West Ham, was Hammer of the Year in 1991 and later returned as a first-team goalkeeping coach. But statistics don’t really explain why he remains so loved.
As we wrote following the desperately sad news of his passing, Ludo’s name is still sung by supporters who weren’t even born when he was keeping goal for West Ham.
So I would urge everybody who’s attending the London Stadium on Friday night to get there early and not just mourn Ludo’s passing, but to celebrate his life.
And if you can’t make it and you’ve got a ticket, please do list it on the Ticket Exchange and give everybody a chance to go.
This is one of those occasions when the team and fans can really do the memory of a legend proud.
Very well put Gonzo, if I close my eyes I can still see one of his booming drop kicks into the penalty spot of the opposing team. What a legend, sleep well Big Boy
Well said, absolute giant of a legend in our history