LUTON hero Pelly Ruddock Mpanzu sent an incredible message to team-mate Tom Lockyer after the defender watched promotion glory in hospital following his scary collapse at Wembley.
Lockyer was given oxygen early in the Championship-play-off final triumph over Coventry before being carried off.
His parents were with him in the Wembley medical room – and his family later surrounded him in hospital to celebrate shootout joy.
Lockyer’s recovery followed initial fears from fans and players a couple of hours earlier as medics from both teams treated him on the pitch.
And the 28-year-old’s improvement sparked relief from his squad plus a cheeky demand from Mpanzu as Luton sealed a Premier League return.
The midfielder joked: “Get off your hospital bed and join us at the party.”
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Mpanzu, 29, arguably has more to celebrate than anyone as the Hatters launch a huge knees-up.
Saturday’s triumph makes him the first player ever to go from non-League to the Prem with the same club – a feat achieved in 10 years.
But his first thoughts were for his pal as he said: “100 per cent (this is) dedicated to (Lockyer).
“He’s been a warrior all season. For him to go down so early was tough. We won it for him, we all hope he’s well.”
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Lockyer’s father offered reassurance over the Welshman’s condition.
Along with a snap of the family rejoicing by his hospital bed, he posted: “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…….”
Supporters around their country were overjoyed to hear that.
One wrote: “God to see that Tom is all good! Was a worrying moment. Get well soon.”
An Aston Villa fan wrote: “Buzzing to see he is ok. All the best and I hope he is well soon. Look forward to seeing him play at Villa Park.”
And amongst the flood of similar well-wishing was this: “Congratulations to Luton and to Tom.
“Brilliant player for us at Charlton. So happy to see him get to the Premier League with Luton.
“Hope he and your family is well. I wish him a speedy recovery.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
