Luton star Tom Lockyer speaks out for first time since suffering on-pitch cardiac arrest

Luton captain Tom Lockyer has spoken out for the first time since suffering a cardiac arrest on the pitch during his side's match with Bournemouth earlier in December. The Welsh defender admitted that his professional future will be decided in a series of meetings in the new year, after fears were raised even higher having also collapsed during the Championship Play-off final in May.

The 29-year-old was taken to hospital after falling to the ground with no player around him at Bournemouth, and later it was revealed that Lockyer had suffered a cardiac arrest. He was later stabilised and then discharged before Christmas.

Luton boss Rob Edwards had provided a positive update on his skipper and insisted that Lockyer was "bored already" away from the football pitch. But now the centre-back has released a statement with an update on his condition and plans moving forward.

"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," Lockyer's statement read.

"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."

Lockyer underwent minor heart surgery in the summer after collapsing during Luton's Championship play-off final victory against Coventry at Wembley, but was given the all-clear to return to professional football and lead the Hatters in the Premier League.