Luton captain Tom Lockyer was in a “stable” state in hospital after having a heart arrest on Saturday, forcing his team’s Premier League match against Bournemouth to be called off.
Lockyer collapsed to the ground in a worrisome scenario in the 65th minute, with the score tied at 1-1.
The game was stopped as the Luton defender was treated by medics and both teams were sent to the changing room.
Lockyer was eventually stretchered off, surrounded by the medical crew, and sent to the hospital right away.
The crowd gave Lockyer a standing ovation, and fans chanted his name throughout the Vitality Stadium.
“Our medical staff have confirmed that Tom Lockyer suffered cardiac arrest on the pitch, but was responsive by the time he was taken off on the stretcher,” Luton said in a statement.
“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.”
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.… pic.twitter.com/YCTiHtH5Nx
— Luton Town FC (@LutonTown) December 16, 2023
Referee Simon Hooper stated the game will not resume on Saturday about 30 minutes after the incident.
Both teams’ players returned to the field and saluted the fans.
Lockyer also fell in May during Luton’s Championship play-off final victory over Coventry at Wembley.
Wales international was transported to the hospital and later had heart surgery.
The 29-year-old underwent surgery to repair atrial fibrillation, a condition described by the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) as producing “an irregular and often abnormally fast heart rate.”
Lockyer made his comeback at the start of Luton Town’s first season in the top division in 31 years.
He had made 15 appearances so far in all competitions before Saturday’s match.
Lockyer could now face a battle to resume his career after the latest health scare.
A statement from the Premier League read: “The Premier League match between AFC Bournemouth and Luton Town FC has been abandoned due to a player medical incident.
“Our thoughts are with Tom Lockyer and all players involved in today’s match.”
The Wales national team posted on X, formerly Twitter: “Our thoughts are with Tom Lockyer”.