Tom Lockyer Returns to Action with Bristol Rovers Amid Heart Month Campaign
London, 18 February 2026 – Welsh defender Tom Lockyer has successfully completed his return to professional football, currently representing Bristol Rovers in League Two. The 31-year-old centre-back, who famously suffered a cardiac arrest while playing for Luton Town in the Premier League in December 2023, has become a central figure in British Heart Foundation initiatives this month. His return to the pitch comes approximately 22 months after the incident that halted his top-flight career.
Heart Month Campaign and Panini Partnership
To mark Heart Month in February 2026, Lockyer has partnered with Panini and the English Football League (EFL) to launch a limited-edition “shiny” sticker. The campaign aims to raise awareness for heart health and support the British Heart Foundation. Lockyer, who now plays with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), has been vocal about his recovery journey, stating that “every minute counts” regarding cardiac emergency response.
Recent Match Incidents and Discipline
While his return has been celebrated as an emotional milestone, Lockyer has recently faced scrutiny on the pitch. During a recent League Two fixture against Oldham Athletic, the defender was involved in an off-the-ball incident with opponent Kane Drummond. Despite calls from Oldham manager Micky Mellon for a dismissal following an apparent elbow, Lockyer only received a yellow card. Bristol Rovers ultimately lost the match 2–0 at Boundary Park.
Player Profile: Key Facts
Lockyer remains a vital part of Steve Evans’ defensive unit at Bristol Rovers as the club navigates the 2025/26 campaign.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Thomas Alun Lockyer |
| Date of Birth | 3 December 1994 |
| Age | 31 |
| Place of Birth | Cardiff, Wales |
| Current Club | Bristol Rovers |
| Position | Centre-back |
| Height | 1.85 m |
| International Caps | Wales |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which club does Tom Lockyer play for now?
As of February 2026, Tom Lockyer plays for Bristol Rovers in League Two. He previously played for Luton Town, Charlton Athletic, and had a prior long-term spell with Bristol Rovers earlier in his career.
What happened to Tom Lockyer in the Premier League?
On 16 December 2023, while captaining Luton Town against Bournemouth, Lockyer suffered a cardiac arrest on the pitch. The match was abandoned, and he subsequently underwent surgery to be fitted with an ICD before eventually being cleared to return to professional football with Bristol Rovers.
Is Tom Lockyer involved in any charity work?
Yes, he is currently a prominent ambassador for heart health. In February 2026, he collaborated with Panini to release a special edition sticker to promote the British Heart Foundation during Heart Month.