Tom Lockyer update issued by Luton Town 24 hours after captain's cardiac arrest

17 December 2023 , 15:04

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Tom Lockyer in action for Luton Town (Image: Getty Images)

Luton Town captain Tom Lockyer remains in hospital where he is undergoing tests and scans after suffering a cardiac arrest during their abandoned Premier League clash with Bournemouth.

The Hatters were drawing 1-1 at the Vitality Stadium when the Wales international collapsed in the middle of the field - just seven months after a similar incident in last season's Championship Playoff Final. Lockyer had surgery to correct an atrial fibrillation in June

Paramedics and staff, including Luton manager Rob Edwards, immediately sprinted to Lockyer’s aid when he went down near midfield in the second half of the encounter. Players left the pitch as the was being treated but returned to applaud the crowd after the Premier League announced the match had been abandoned.

A club statement on Sunday afternoon confirmed: "While our captain Tom Lockyer remains in hospital following the cardiac arrest he suffered on the pitch at Bournemouth yesterday, we understand that supporters are concerned for him and that there is widespread media interest in his condition.

Tom Lockyer received medical treatment after collapsing (Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

"Tom is still undergoing tests and scans, and is awaiting the results before the next steps for his recovery are determined. We are unable to provide a running commentary on his situation, and request that all media please wait for any updates to be released via the club’s official channels when the time is right.

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"We all want the very best for Tom, his partner Taylor and the whole Lockyer family, and politely ask that his and their privacy is respected at this difficult time."

After the incident on Saturday, Lockyer was responsive in the tunnel at Dean Court, before immediately being transferred to hospital. An initial club statement looked to reassure supporters that he was in a stable condition, with his family at his bedside.

An emotional Rob Edwards, manager of Luton Town, applauded all fans at the Vitality Stadium

Lockyer, who had made 15 appearances so far in all competitions before Saturday’s match, has been sent countless get well messages – including some from BBC TV presenter and near-neighbour Jason Mohammad.

Final Score presenter Mohammad lives in the same part of Cardiff as where the Hatters skipper grew up. Mohammad sent his best wishes to the Wales international defender during the programme on Saturday night, saying: “Tom grew up a couple of streets from where I now live.

“I know his dad really well. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. Tom’s also a very popular member of the Wales squad. We are thinking of you, Tom.”

Gary Lineker and his Match of the Day colleagues were applauded for their coverage of the distressing scenes, after opening Saturday night's show with a message of support for Lockyer and Luton.

Fabrice Muamba, who suffered a cardiac arrest while playing for Bolton against Tottenham in 2012, after hearing that Lockyer was responsive on Saturday night, wrote on social media: "Wishing you a speedy recovery, Tom Lockyer. It's great to hear you are responsive and alert. Rest up and God willing you recover well. Thinking of you and your family today."

Alex Richards