Former Manchester City midfielder Stephen Ireland was rushed to hospital after suffering a serious injury during a Veterans Cup final, prompting the match to be abandoned. The 39-year-old, who played 176 times for City and earned caps for the Republic of Ireland, was playing for Wythenshawe Vets against South Liverpool over-35s in the Cheshire Cup final at Warrington Rylands on Sunday.
Horror Tackle Leaves Players Shocked
Video footage circulating on social media shows Ireland on the receiving end of a heavy tackle before collapsing to the ground. An audible crack can be heard in the clip, leaving players from both teams visibly distressed, with some covering their faces. Paramedics attended to Ireland on the pitch, and an ambulance drove onto the field to transport him to hospital.
Wythenshawe Vets, known for featuring several former Premier League and Football League stars, have been a sensation this season. Alongside Ireland, the squad includes Papiss Cisse, Oumar Niasse, Joleon Lescott, and George Boyd. The team sits top of the Cheshire Vets League with a perfect record and a goal difference of 77.
Wife Expresses Gratitude
Ireland's wife, Jess, took to Instagram to thank the emergency services, both clubs, and Warrington Rylands for their swift assistance. She wrote: "Thank you to everyone at today's game who helped in any way. It was a really upsetting and shocking moment, but the care and unity shown made a huge difference. We are so grateful not only to the Wythenshawe FC fans, but also to South Liverpool Vets and everyone at Warrington Rylands: you were all outstanding. A special thank you to the paramedics and ambulance team from Warrington Hospital for their swift and professional care."
She added: "In true Stephen spirit: 'Superman will return.' We're all behind you, Stephen. Wishing you a full and speedy recovery."
Match Abandoned After Incident
The cup final was abandoned in the first half following the injury. Cisse had reportedly scored a first-half hat-trick before the distressing incident. The league and both clubs are now deciding the next steps regarding the match. Wythenshawe Vets have already secured the Manchester FA Veterans Cup, thrashing East Manchester 9-2 in last month's final. They have also received an invitation to face Conor McGregor's non-league side in Ireland and are scheduled to compete in the $1 million winner-takes-all TST tournament in the United States at the end of May.
Ireland's condition is reportedly stable, and he is said to be doing as well as can be expected. The exact severity of the injury has not been confirmed. The football community has rallied around the former Premier League star, with messages of support pouring in from fans and former teammates.
