Luton’s Captain Tom Lockyer is in a stable and responsive condition after collapsing during their match at Bournemouth.
The Premier League game was halted as medical attention was given to Lockyer on the field in the second half at the Vitality Stadium.
He was later taken off on a stretcher, receiving applause from all around the stadium while the players were also led off the field.
Referee Simon Hooper ultimately decided to officially abandon the match.
A statement from Luton said: “We all hope and pray for our leader and captain Tom Lockyer, who is thankfully responsive and has been taken to hospital.
“We don’t know the full extent of what happened and what the next steps are at this stage.
“We are sorry to all supporters present that players from both sides were in no state of mind to continue with the game after seeing their much-loved team-mate and friend taken off like that, and staff could not carry on with managing the game in such circumstances having had to deal with the situation.
“We thank everyone for the wonderful applause and singing of Locks’ name inside the stadium at such a difficult time.
“Now is the time for all of our players, staff and supporters to come together as we always do and give our love and support to Tom and his family.
“Our thoughts are with him and them all.”
The match stood at 1-1 before the interruption, as Dominic Solanke equalized Elijah Adebayo’s goal just before the incident involving Lockyer occurred.
Lockyer, aged 29, previously collapsed during last season’s playoff final and was hospitalized. After undergoing heart surgery, he received clearance to resume playing in June.
Bournemouth, the opposing team, released a statement expressing relief at Lockyer’s responsiveness.
They extended their thoughts to Lockyer and his family during this challenging time.
The club also thanked the swift action of medical staff and appreciated the support and unity shown by everyone inside the stadium amidst the distressing moment.
