Ireland featured for Wythenshawe Vets in a cup final against South Liverpool Vets on Sunday, a side which Papiss Cisse, Marc Albrighton, Danny Drinkwater, Maynor Figueroa, Joleon Lescott, Nedum Onuoha, Emile Heskey and Antonio Valencia have also played for this season.
However, the match was forced to stop following a challenge within the opening half-hour which resulted in an ambulance coming onto the pitch.
MAN report the video of the incident includes audio where a sickening snap can be heard with players holding their head in their hands due to the severity of the incident.
Wythenshawe Vets posted after the game, thanking fans for their support after what was a horrific incident: "Stephen is overwhelmed and incredibly grateful for the support following today's incident in the Veterans Final.
"His wife Jess also shared: '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.
"In true Stephen spirit: "Superman will return." We're all behind you, Stephen. Wishing you a full and speedy recovery."
Wythenshawe Vets are unbeaten in their first 10 league games with a six-point lead at the top of the table with a whopping 77 goal difference. However, despite his side cruising in the league, Ireland could be out for a number of months as more messages of support flood in.