Tom Lockyer celebrated Luton’s promotion to the Premier League from his hospital bed after collapsing during Saturday’s Championship play-off final against Coventry.
Lockyer’s father Steve took to Twitter to post a picture of his son, the Luton captain, after his team sealed a return to top-flight football after 31 years thanks to Fankaty Dabo’s miss in an otherwise top-quality penalty shootout that followed a tense 1-1 draw at Wembley.
Lockyer was surrounded by family as he celebrated the Hatters’ triumph from his hospital bed, with Steve writing: “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…….”
Luton also shared the image on social media along with the caption: “We love you Lockie.”
Influential centre-back Lockyer started as usual for Luton at Wembley, but collapsed on the edge of his own 18-yard box in frightening scenes after just six minutes of the game.
We love you Lockie 🥰#COVLUT | #COYH pic.twitter.com/plI1PSlQl3
— Luton Town FC (@LutonTown) May 27, 2023
The 28-year-old was given oxygen and received lengthy treatment from the medical staff of both clubs before being stretchered off.
Luton later confirmed that Lockyer was conscious and talking to family as he was taken to hospital for tests.
“I feel really good, but the only thing I’m thinking about now is Tom Lockyer,” Luton boss Rob Edwards said after promotion was secured.
After being shown the picture of Lockyer celebrating by Sky Sports, a tearful Edwards replied: “You’re going to make me go.
“I can’t speak highly enough of him. I’m really pleased he’s okay.”
Luton’s players dedicated their dramatic victory to Lockyer, holding up his shirt several times during the post-match celebrations at Wembley.
“I’m gutted for Locks, he deserved to be there holding that trophy. Hopefully we’ll be able to see him tonight,” said defender Dan Potts.
Your shirts a bit small for me brother. But we done it 🙌🏽❤️🔥 love you mate. Luton are in the premier league 🟠 pic.twitter.com/96rVG9BVqD
— Carlton Morris (@CarltonJM) May 27, 2023
“The gaffer always says health is the most important thing and family.”
Striker Carlton Morris said: “Locks, I love you mate. We’ve done it.”
Morris later posted a picture of himself wearing Lockyer’s shirt in the Luton dressing room, alongside the play-off trophy.
He wrote: “Your shirts a bit small for me brother. But we [sic] done it, love you mate. Luton are in the premier league.”
