The former Premier League midfielder appears to have suffered a serious leg fracture after a nasty tackle during an amateur match, with an ambulance rushing to the pitch in harrowing scenes. Former Manchester City player Stephen Ireland was due to feature for Wythenshawe Betts in Sunday’s cup final against South Liverpool Betts. The match, which featured several former top stars, was brought to an abrupt halt when Ireland’s tackles were so bad that an ambulance was called to the pitch to treat injured players.
Harrowing footage of the challenge and its aftermath was shared on social media, showing the midfielder crouched on the ground as a sickening crack, like a gunshot, emitted from the defender as he mounted the ferocious challenge against Ireland. Footage showed distraught team-mates, friends and family from across Ireland gathering as an ambulance rushed onto the pitch as he received emergency treatment.
Ireland, who has made 176 appearances for City, has been pivotal in the star-studded side’s rise to fame. The full extent of the injury is not yet clear at this stage.
He was taken to hospital by ambulance and the match was called off, with both clubs and the league set to decide how to proceed.
Ireland and his wife Jess have kept the club informed and further updates will be provided at the appropriate time.
A statement from Wythenshawe Veterans said: “Stephen is overwhelmed and incredibly grateful for the support following today’s events at the Veterans Final.
His wife Jess said: “Thank you to everyone who attended today’s game and supported us in any way. It was a truly upsetting and shocking moment, but the compassion and solidarity shown made a huge difference.”
“A big thank you to not only the Wythenshawe FC fans, but also to the South Liverpool veterans and everyone at Warrington Rylands. You all have been fantastic.
“A special thank you to the paramedics and ambulance team at Warrington Hospital for their prompt and professional treatment.”
“In true Stephen spirit: Superman will be back. We are all rooting for you, Stephen. We wish you a full and speedy recovery.”
Wythenshawe Veterans has been one of the most compelling stories of the season, with former Premier League stars lacing up their shoes again to play Sunday League football.
This season, the team includes Papis Cissé, Mark Albrighton, Danny Drinkwater, Maynor Figueroa, Joleon Lescott, Nedum Onuoha, Emile Heskey and Antonio Valencia.
Wythenshawe are top of the Cheshire Veterans Football League Premier Division, having won all 10 league games with a goal difference of 77. Last month they also won the Manchester FA Veterans Cup, defeating East Manchester 9-2.
