Former ⁠England ⁠winger Andros Townsend hit by pitch roller

Former England winger Andros Townsend escaped unharmed after being struck and run over by a pitch roller while warming up at half-time for PT Prachuap in Thailand on Saturday 19 September 2026.

The 35-year-old, formerly of Tottenham Hotspur and Everton, was knocked to the ground as the machine passed over his legs and lower body. Despite the alarming scenes, Townsend later came on as a late substitute in Prachuap's 3-0 victory.

Roller driver appeared to lose control

Video of the incident showed Townsend kicking a ball away during the interval, with his attention elsewhere as the roller approached.

Picture courtesy of Daily Mall

The vehicle's driver appeared to struggle for control before it hit the winger. Spectators could be heard gasping as Townsend fell beneath the machine.

Townsend subsequently shared footage of the incident on his Instagram page. He was able to walk away and avoided serious injury.

Latest stop in a long career

Townsend joined PT Prachuap during the summer transfer window after a short spell with Turkish club Antalyaspor. The Prachuap Khiri Khan-based side are located around 150 miles south of Bangkok.

The club appeared to reveal his impending arrival two weeks before the move was completed, when it asked whether anyone had a three-bedroom house available for the player. PT Prachuap are the 17th club of Townsend's career.

He made 29 appearances for Kanchanaburi Power last season and scored three goals. His previous clubs include Tottenham, Newcastle United, Crystal Palace and Everton.

Townsend had also been in the United States during the World Cup break, working as an ITV co-commentator. He attracted attention during the tournament for videos about his diet, including eating raw steak, sardines and boiled eggs.

He said the approach was intended to help him remain healthy while staying in hotels without cooking facilities and facing the temptation of fast food. "Never let your circumstances dictate your health," Townsend said.

Townsend has said he has eaten raw meat for four years, including during his Premier League career when he had access to specialist dietary advice.

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21 September 2026