Tom Lockyer breaks silence on his cardiac arrest and thanks ‘heroic actions’ of players and medics who ‘saved my life’

LUTON TOWN star Tom Lockyer has released his first statement since suffering the his cardiac arrest on December 16.

Lockyer, 29, suffered a cardiac arrest on the pitch during the Hatters’ clash with Bournemouth earlier this month.

GettyTom Lockyer suffered a cardiac arrest against Bournemouth on December 16[/caption]

AlamyThe Luton captain has released a statement thanking those who saved him[/caption]

ReutersThe defender collapsed in terrifying scenes at Bournemouth on December 20[/caption]

PALockyer has now thanked the heroes who saved his life on the pitch[/caption]

Last week, the Welsh centre-back was discharged from hospital as he continues his recovery.

Now he has posted a statement via his social media channels to provide supporters with an update on his condition as he thanked the “heroic” actions” of the people that saved him.

It began: “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.

LIFE OR DEATH How to perform CPR when someone goes into cardiac arrest

“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, who underwent minor heart surgery in the summer after collapsing at Wembley in the Championship play-off final win over Coventry, continued: “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.”

Lockyer then wrote: “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.”

The star then signed off with: “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. Locks.”

ReutersPelly Ruddock Mpanzu, left, and Carlton Morris, right, holding Lockyer’s shirt up to the fans[/caption]