The former New Mills and Stalybridge player was involved in what looked an innocuous challenge but within seconds the extent of the injury became clear, and Warburton’s groans of pain could be heard around the Ewen Fields ground.
He was tended by Mossley sports therapist Joe Ajibade and Tigers physio Stefanie Todd but was left on the pitch for around an hour, covered with coats, until paramedics arrived. Gas and air was administered and Warburton looked ashen as he was taken away, but he managed to acknowledge the applause of the fans and officials who had remained as he was loaded into the ambulance.
The full extent of the injury was unclear. There were claims that Warburton had suffered a double fracture but no one was able to confirm the fact. Mossley co-manager Peter Band was too upset to comment but promised to make a statement tomorrow (Wednesday).
Warburton has been extremely unlucky with injuries, having already suffered a snapped Achilles tendon.
The tie was 2-2 at the time it was abandoned. No date has yet been set for the replay.