Luton confirm captain Tom Lockyer suffered cardiac arrest before collapsing

16 December 2023 , 17:54

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Luton confirm captain Tom Lockyer suffered cardiac arrest before collapsing

Luton 's Tom Lockyer suffered a cardiac arrest that led to his terrifying collapse against Bournemouth on Saturday, the club have confirmed.

The 29-year-old defender received treatement on the pitch and was transported to hospital after collapsing in the 60th minute of the game against Bournemouth. The match was eventually abandoned after players were taken off the pitch, with the decision being made that neither side could continue.

A statement from Luton on Saturday evening read: "Our medical staff have confirmed that the Hatters captain suffered cardiac arrest on the pitch, but was responsive by the time he was taken off on the stretcher. He received further treatment inside the stadium, for which we once again thank the medical teams from both sides.

"Tom was transferred to hospital, where we can reassure supporters that he is stable and currently undergoing further tests with his family at his bedside. We would like to thank everyone for their support, concern and loving messages for Locks."

The incident was the second time that Lockyer has been at the centre of a terrfying on-pitch incident after his collapse during May's Championship playoff final against Coventry at Wembley Stadium. The defender underwent heart surgery after an atrial fibrillation, a condition the NHS describes as causing "an irregular and often abnormally fast heart rate", was identified.

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Following the decision to adandon Saturday's clash, players and club staff re-emerged from the tunnel to offer their thanks to supporters. Rob Edwards - who had initially run onto the pitch after spotting Lockyer in trouble - was visibly emotional as he applauded fans.

Rob Edwards looks on as Tom Lockyer receives treatment (Getty Images)

A number of tributes have poured in for Lockyer in the aftermath of the terrifying scenes. Luton's opponents Bournemouth gave their response to an update earlier on Saturday.

It read: "We’re relieved to hear Tom is responsive. Our thoughts will continue to be with Tom and his family at this time. We’d like to thank all the medical staff for their quick action as well as everyone inside the stadium for their support and unity during a difficult moment."

Lockyer had previously made 14 appearances in Luton's first-ever Premier League season. Edwards' side are next back in action this weekend as they take on Newcastle at Kenilworth Road on Saturday afternoon.

Ahead of Lockyer's collapse, the game between Luton and Bournemouth was poised at 1-1 after goals from Elijah Adebayo and Dominic Solanke. It will now be played at a later date.

Daniel Orme