Tom Lockyer breaks down in tears as he gets hero’s welcome on return to Luton pitch for first time since cardiac arrest
TOM LOCKYER was reduced to tears as he applauded Luton fans on his emotional return to Kenilworth Road.
The Hatters’ skipper has been absent from matches since suffering a cardiac arrest during the Premier League match at Bournemouth on December 16.
The clash was abandoned as the Welsh defender was rushed to hospital.
Lockyer – who also collapsed during last season’s Championship play-off final at Wembley – was discharged before Christmas to continue his recovery at home.
But although he remains sidelined, tonight he was back at Luton’s home ground to watch his team-mates tear Brighton apart in the Premier League.
The 29-year-old wore a maroon coat, brown hoody and black beanie hat as he received a hero’s welcome by his adoring supporters.
Lockyer walked around the pitch and clapped those in the stands before kick-off.
He soaked in the brilliant standing ovation as the Hatters and even travelling Brighton fans belted out his chant on repeat.
A huge, orange banner was displayed in the Kenilworth Stand while Lockyer’s beloved Foo Fighters were blared out on the PA system before he walked out.
Then just 18 seconds into the game, Lockyer and the Luton supporters were delighted to see Elijah Adebayo head in.
Incredibly, it was 2-0 on three minutes when Chiedozie Ogbene slid into an unguarded net.
Adebayo added his second and Luton’s third just before half-time and he completed the Hatters’ very first Premier League hat-trick 11 minutes after the break to complete a thumping 4-0 win.
Lockyer has not been allowed to resume playing football just yet after the shocking medical ordeal six weeks ago.
However, he did visit the Luton training ground on Monday to be reunited with his fellow players as well as various club staff.
Lockyer was filmed hugging stars in the dressing room and received a wonderful reception as he entered the team meeting.
He then headed out on to the pitches to watch training up close.
Lockyer appeared in good spirits throughout his visit, including during his chat with boss Rob Edwards, and said: “I’ve really enjoyed coming in and seeing all the lads. I haven’t seen them since that happened [at Bournemouth].
“It’s really nice to see them all and be back in the building. “All the lads have been amazing.
“Carlton has been up to the house but it was lovely to see him again today.”
Lockyer added: “I’ve got a couple of Harry Potter jigsaws but Lego is my favourite.
“Anything to keep me busy. Being so active for all my life to then be told you can’t do anything has been quite difficult.
“I’m a bit of a handyman now so if you need a wonky shelf or a wonky picture frame I’m your man.”