Townsend escapes injury after pitch roller incident in Thailand

Former England winger Andros Townsend was struck and run over by a pitch roller during a warm-up for a Thai League One match on Saturday, September 19, 2026, but escaped without serious injury. The incident occurred before PT Prachuap's match against Pattani FC at Pattani Province Stadium. Video footage shows the 35-year-old, who now plays for PT Prachuap, being hit by the slow-moving vehicle as he attempted an aerial backheel. The machine knocked him to the ground and passed over him, stopping around his hip area. Townsend's teammates rushed to his aid, with some turning away in horror. The driver of the roller immediately leaped from his seat. Despite the frightening scene, Townsend was able to get back to his feet and hobble away. He was checked by medical staff and remained with the squad for the match. Remarkably, Townsend later came on as a substitute in stoppage time, replacing Jesper Nyholm. His brief appearance helped PT Prachuap secure a 3-0 victory over Pattani FC. The win moved the club level on points at the top of the Thai League One table alongside several other teams after three games. Townsend later posted on social media, laughing off the incident.