The game between Bournemouth and Luton Town in the Premier League was called off midway after the Luton defender Tom Lockyer collapsed on the pitch on Saturday.

Struggling Luton took the lead against in-form Bournemouth when Elijah Adebayo rose highest to head home a corner in the third minute but Dominic Solanke levelled just before the hour mark.

But the game was halted midway through the second half as Luton’s Lockyer received medical treatment after collapsing off the ball.

The defender, who also collapsed during the play-off final win against Coventry in May before undergoing heart surgery, was removed from the pitch on a stretcher surrounded by the medical team, and there was a standing ovation from the crowd.

After the players were taken off, the Premier League confirmed the match had been abandoned.

“The Premier League match between AFC Bournemouth and Luton Town FC has been abandoned due to a player medical incident,” said a statement from the English top flight.

“Our thoughts are with Tom Lockyer and all players involved in today’s match.”

Meanwhile, Chelsea returned to winning ways at Stamford Bridge against bottom club Sheffield United, winning 2-0.

Cole Palmer smashed Raheem Sterling’s low cross into the net in the 54th minute and he turned provider just after the hour mark as Nicolas Jackson slotted home.

It was just their third Premier League home win in a tough season for the injury-ravaged team.