Bristol Rovers hero makes major contract decision ahead of Premier League debut

Tom Lockyer has confirmed he will stay at Luton Town, after signing a new contract with the newly promoted Premier League club.

The 28-year-old was out of contract this summer, but has put pen-to-paper on a new contract for an undisclosed length, which will see him play in the top flight of English football for the first time in his career. Lockyer collapsed during the play-off final and had an operation for a heart issue, but was given the good news that he could continue playing football. Last season he was named Player of the Year at Luton, and has made 100 appearances to date for the Kennilworth Road.

The 16-time Wales international doubted he'd play professional football again after being hospitalised during the Championship play-off final but will now be gearing up for an exciting season ahead for Luton.

He said: "I was absolutely gutted that I couldn’t be there to celebrate with you all at the end of last season, but I can’t thank you all enough for all the messages you sent me, it means so much to me and my family.

"Sat in the back of the ambulance van, I was worried that I was never going to be able to play again, so I’m absolutely delighted to announce that I’ll be staying on at Luton Town.

Lockyer added: “Ever since I’ve come to this football club I’ve had an unbelievable relationship with the fans, it makes my spine tingle every time I hear my name sung and I can’t wait to hear that again.”

“I’d really like to build something special here at Luton Town. I’ve got an incredible relationship with the fans, the manager, all the boys.

“I love the club and I love being here. It’s incredible what we achieved last season. To have the chance to play with Luton in the Premier League will be something."

Lockyer was linked with a sensational return back to his former club Bristol Rovers last summer, but was only made aware of the interest in October. He had doubted whether he had a future at Luton under Nathan Jones, and sought a loan move but was urged to stay by his compatriot.

He revealed that during the match with MK Dons in which he attended, he was told that there was an attempt to bring him back to the Memorial Stadium. He remained with Luton, and was included in Wales' World Cup squad, and despite not featuring in their matches, promised his former club a shirt as a way of showing his gratitude for helping him during his career.