In a shocking turn of events, the Premier League match between Bournemouth and Luton Town came to a halt as Luton’s captain, Tom Lockyer, collapsed on the pitch after suffering a cardiac arrest. The medical emergency unfolded in the 59th minute, prompting immediate attention from medics and an eventual suspension of the game.
Cherries midfielder Phillip Billing was quick to spot Lockyer’s distress, signaling for urgent medical assistance. Both sets of players were visibly distressed as Lockyer received treatment, leading to the suspension of the match. Lockyer, who had collapsed during last season’s Championship playoff final, was stretchered off to applause from the Vitality Stadium.
The Bournemouth club doctor confirmed that Lockyer was “alert and responsive.” Luton Town later released a statement, revealing that Lockyer had suffered a cardiac arrest but was responsive when taken off the pitch. He received further treatment inside the stadium and was transferred to the hospital, where he is stable and undergoing additional tests.
The emotional impact on players from both sides was evident, leading to the abandonment of the game. Players later returned to the pitch for a lap of applause around the ground’s perimeter after confirmation of the abandonment.
This incident marked another episode in Lockyer’s health journey, as he had previously collapsed during the Championship playoff final and underwent heart surgery for atrial fibrillation. Reports from Wales, where Lockyer represents the national team, expressed solidarity and well-wishes for the defender. The football community, including Gary Lineker, echoed relief upon hearing that Lockyer was alert and responsive after the distressing event.
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