Tom Lockyer speaks out for first time since suffering cardiac arrest during Bournemouth clash as Luton captain pays tribute to those who 'saved his life'

The game, played earlier this month, was abandoned after 59 minutes after Lockyer collapsed. It was later confirmed that the defender had suffered a cardiac arrest with the Hatters skipper being discharged from hospital five days after the incident.

Now, Lockyer has provided an update on his condition on Instagram, writing: "I would just like to say that I am doing very well and feeling very much myself after the cardiac arrest I suffered in Bournemouth. The reason I’m doing so well is all down to the heroic actions of the players, staff, doctors and paramedics. I feel thankful that this happened to me surrounded by these heroes.

"They saved my life. I will never forget what you did for me. While I’m sad not to be involved, I feel full of pride watching the boys carry on the battle without me. The fighting spirit I’ve seen in the last three games has given me a much needed lift. I will be doing whatever I can in whichever ways are possible to help the gaffer and the Club. In what capacity that is remains to be decided as I’m due to meet with specialists in the new year. I cannot stress enough how important it is for as many people as possible to know CPR. It literally saves lives, like mine.

"Please check out the British Heart Foundation website for basics or get yourself on a course. You just never know when you might need it. I have been overwhelmed by the support that I have received and thank you all for your messages, letters, gifts and well wishes. Seeing the banners at the ground and hearing my name being sung really did mean a lot to me and my family. Finally I would like to thank Bournemouth, Gary Sweet, Rob Edwards and Luton Town for the support they’ve given my family during this time. I hope that everyone has a very Happy New Year and best wishes for 2024."

Luton and Lockyer received an outpouring of support in the aftermath of the incident, with Manchester United's Christian Eriksen - who suffered an on-pitch cardiac arrest at Euro 2020 - provided him with advice for his recovery. Andros Townsend also dedicated his winner against Newcastle to his Hatters team-mate, holding up his No.4 shirt during the celebrations.

It is not yet clear if Lockyer will return to the field. Luton boss Rob Edwards provided an update on the situation ahead of his side's clash with Newcastle. "It's been a difficult week for everyone. His family have been the main concern all week and then it's the players and staff that have been affected. All that matters is that he's come through and he's home. It is about him recovering, it is all we care about. Supporting the operation with the ICD (Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator) being fitted, then we will see going forward what this means."