Luton captain Tom Lockyer was pictured celebrating his side's promotion from his hospital bed after being stretchered off in the first half of their penalty shoot-out win over Coventry at Wembley. The Wales defender went down under no challenge from an opponent in worrying scenes early into the game, but his father posted a promising update on social media.
Lockyer's father Steve tweeted: "Tom’s Dad here. Tom is ok. Very happy but so sad he can’t be there with his team mates. Here is the moment……." Coupled with a photo of him celebrating with his family.
The club released a statement during the game, informing supporters of their captain's status. "We are able to report that after collapsing on the pitch, Tom Lockyer has been taken to hospital for further tests," the statement read. "He is responsive and talking to his family, who are with him. We are all with you, Locks #COYH."
Tom Lockyer being stretchered off at Wembley. (Image: Getty)
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Many of Lockyer's team-mates paid tribute to him and wished him well during their celebrations having achieved promotion to the Premier League, while Pelly Ruddock Mpanzu - who has been at the club since their days in non-league - insisted that the Welshman needed to leave his hospital bed and join them in tonight's party.
"100 per cent [the win is dedicated to Lockyer]," Mpanzu told Sky Sports. "Obviously it's tough, hopefully it's all well and we're going to celebrate but it's been a worry.
"Come on man, get off that hospital bed and come and join us bro! [We're going to party] tonight, tomorrow, Tuesday, Wednesday, every day and then Thursday - Vegas. We're always moving and grooving."
While Luton boss Rob Edwards was visibly emotional after being shown the tweet from Lockyer's dad by Sky Sports after the game, as he struggled to find the words to discuss how moved he was by the positive update.
"I can't speak highly enough of him," Edwards said as he fought back tears learning of Lockyer's improved condition. "Really pleased he's okay."