Tottenham and Czech Republic goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky has paid an emotional tribute to former West Ham United goalkeeper Ludek Miklosko, who died at 64 after a battle with cancer.
Speaking ahead of England’s game against Czechia, Kinsky described Miklosko as an “honest, kind and respectful person” who was “very inspiring” and someone he “trusted” during his formative years.

Miklosko, who made 373 appearances for West Ham between 1990 and 1997 and later played for QPR, worked as a goalkeeping coach at West Ham until 2010 before moving into agency work and later roles at Baník Ostrava.
Kinsky said Miklosko acted as his agent and mentor from about age 10 to 18, helping guide his early career before Miklosko left the agency to become sporting director at Baník Ostrava.

Kinsky’s tribute underscores the quiet but profound impact Miklosko had on those around him.
“He did so much for everyone,” Kinsky said, adding that Miklosko treated players not just as clients but as protégés, fostering a bond of mutual trust rare in an industry often dominated by transactions.

The passing of Miklosko at 64 leaves a void in the footballing world, but his influence persists in the players he touched and the systems he helped build.
West Ham announced a period of appreciation before their Carabao Cup match against Fulham and dedicated their next home Championship fixture against QPR to his memory.
As Kinsky prepares to take on new challenges—whether in Tottenham’s defensive structure or beyond—his words serve as a testament to the kind of legacy Miklosko built.
It was a legacy of quiet dedication, of seeing potential where others might not, and of ensuring that every player under his wing had the tools to thrive.
In that sense, Miklosko’s greatest goal was never a trophy, but the confidence of those who followed in his footsteps.