Lockyer is reunited with medics who saved his life after suffering cardiac arrest on the pitch

TOM LOCKYER has been reunited with the medics who helped save his life on his return to the Vitality Stadium.

Luton take on Bournemouth tonight in a replay of the match which was abandoned after the 29-year-old suffered cardiac arrest on the pitch.

Tom Lockyer met the medics who saved his life on his return to Bournemouth StadiumCredit: Prime Media

Lockyer suffered cardiac arrest during the match earlier this seasonCredit: PA

The Luton star will take a lap of honor before kick-offCredit: Rex

He is front and center in tonight's matchday programme — He is front and center in tonight’s matchday programmeCredit: Rex

The Hatters captain had technically been dead for two minutes before medics performed CPR in December.

Lockyer showed his appreciation to those first on the scene as he greeted paramedics who rushed to him with a defibrillator.

The defender smiled as he talked and posed for photos with medics.

He is presented on the field and does a lap of honor before kick-off.

Luton manager Rob Edwards said earlier this evening: “It will be emotional to go back and relive that experience but we know we have to do it.

“Locks will meet the people who helped save his life and see their supporters, who have been incredible.

“It will be great fun for him to meet those heroes and he will receive a wonderful welcome.

“The most important thing now is that Locks is doing well and the positive side is that something good will come from this, with more awareness about CPR.”

Wales star Lockyer spent five days in hospital and now has an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator in his chest.

He may never play professional football again.

Tom Lockyer shows off a defibrillator in his chest after Luton captain went into cardiac arrest during Bournemouth match

In a program interview, Lockyer said: “I can’t wait to see them in person and thank them myself.

“They disappear under the radar almost every game. You only really see them when something serious happens.

‘Then you see what incredible people they are. They provide such quick and prompt life-saving care to people who need it, so I can’t thank them enough.”

A Bournemouth supporters’ association has raised £2,000 to recruit coaches for Luton fans.

There are also plans for a minute of applause as a tribute to the doctors.

Edwards added: “They are the real heroes. It’s just football and there are more important things.”

Cherries boss Andoni Iraola is looking forward to greeting Lockyer.

He said: “I’m glad to know he’s doing well. It will be great to see him.”