The image of Shane Long comforting Seamus Coleman captured the best and worst parts of the beautiful game - from Long's hug to Coleman suffering a horrific double leg-break.
Though the touching moment when Long rushed to Coleman's aide during his leg-break ordeal was universally praised by all sets of fans. And according to his wife, Kayleah, he used the same method during her pregnancy.
His wife told the Sunday Independent; "I had a hypnotherapy birth and they taught Shane to help me to breathe through it."
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"He told me: 'It all came back to me. I was just talking to Seamus, teaching him how to breathe through it.' He remembered it all."
(Coleman is stretchered off the pitch during their World Cup qualifier. Image: PA)
While detailing the brief exchange between the players. "I asked if Seamus was listening to him and he said, 'Yes, to be fair, he was. He was really breathing well."
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She also claims that Coleman thanked Long for his part in comforting him amidst the horror of breaking his leg.
Meanwhile, ROI manager Martin O'Neil confirmed that he underwent successful surgery, and is, needless to say, very disappointed.
"Seamus had the operation yesterday (Saturday) morning at 8:30am, that was successful. He has realised everything that has happened and is obviously very disappointed."
"It will take some time to heal, it's a double break but it has been pinned up now and screwed in. I know the doctors and surgeons are all very, very pleased with the way the operation has gone and now it's time for recuperation."
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The prospect of watching his international and club colleagues on the sidelines will no doubt leave him devastated, though this touching message from a young Everton fan will cheer him up.
Jake Livingstone, who owns a season ticket at Goodison Park with his dad, penned a heart-warming message to his favourite player. Via the Liverpool Echo.
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The card reads;
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"To Coleman, I hope you get better soon. You're my favourite player. We will miss you so much and why does it have to be before the derby? Lots of Love. Your Biggest Fan. Jake Livingstone Xxxxxxxx"
7-year-old Jake holds the Irishman in high regards according to his dad, Paul.
"I take Jake and his brother Connor to the match and Jake has loved Coleman from when he first started going. He's his hero."
"He absolutely loves the 'Sixty Grand' song and was really upset when I had to explain to him Coleman won't be playing for a while because of the injury."
Brilliant card, Jake. And get well soon Seamus!
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