Former England international Andros Townsend was involved in a freak accident during the warm-up before his Thai League One side PT Prachuap’s match against Pattani FC, appearing to be struck and briefly run over by a pitch roller.Footage circulating on social media, reportedly from the warm-up, shows Townsend attempting an acrobatic backheel while jumping for the ball as the grounds vehicle moves towards him. The roller appears to collide with the 35-year-old before passing over him as he lies on his side.The driver then appears to get out of the vehicle and attempt to tilt it to one side, allowing Townsend to free himself. Townsend was later seen with superficial wounds on his thigh.Watch:
Townnsend returns to action
Despite the frightening incident, Townsend reportedly escaped with minor injuries and was able to continue his involvement in the game. He came off the bench in the 93rd minute, replacing Jesper Nyholm, as PT Prachuap secured a 3-0 victory over Pattani.Townsend has been playing in Thailand for more than a year. He initially joined Kanchanaburi Power but left the club following their relegation before moving to PT Prachuap, based in Prachuap Khiri Khan province.The Thai club welcomed Townsend by referring to him as a new member of its “Killer Wasp Family”, a reference to the team’s nickname and its wasp-themed badge.The winger began his senior career in England and played for several clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United, Crystal Palace and Everton. He also represented England at international level.Townsend’s most recent club in England was Luton Town. He left the Championship side in 2024 to join Turkish club Antalyaspor before continuing his career in Thailand.After moving to his second Thai club, Townsend described the move as his “Thai adventure” continuing. However, the latest chapter proved far more dramatic than expected, with the former Premier League winger finding himself involved in an unusual pitch-side accident.The incident occurred before the match and, despite the collision, Townsend was able to take part in the game later that night.