The on-loan midfielder came off the bench as a 69th minute replacement for Peter Lovenkrands during the 0-0 draw with Barclays Premier League leaders, Manchester United, to a rousing reception from the Toon Army.
Singing the same Toon: Ireland received a warm welcome after making his Newcastle debut in the draw with United
'I was quite touched and surprised by the reception the Geordie people gave me,' Ireland, who is on loan from Aston Villa, told the Newcastle Chronicle.
'Even when I was warming up fans were clapping and cheering. 'I was really impressed and taken aback by it.
'I am grateful and appreciate it a lot,' Ireland added. 'They have accepted me and want me to do well and that is all you want. 'I will now try to repay them by working as hard as I can.'
Ireland has endured a tough time on Tyneside since he arrived from Villa in January.
All smiles: But Ireland has endured a tough time at Newcastle since joining them on loan
Injuries have kept him away from first-team action for three months, while his girlfriend and their two-year-old son, were both involved in a serious car accident last week. Although they both survived, his girlfriend, Jessica Lawlor, was left with a broken ankle and internal bleeding.
'It has been hard, but it was all made a lot easier thanks to the Newcastle fans and the club,' Ireland continued.
'I am really impressed by the club, the staff and the fans - everybody has been brilliant with me.
'They have helped me with what has gone on. I am now just looking forward to getting my head down and playing as much football here as I can.
'I just want to help the club climb as high up the league table as much as I can.'
?Newcastle 0 Manchester United 0: Red Devils fire blanks to give Arsenal hopeIreland set for St James' bow... almost three months after joining NewcastlePremiership footballer's girlfriend seriously injured after car smashes into a tree?Explore more:People: Jessica Lawlor Places: Newcastle, Ireland
Source: Daily Mail
Source: Daily Mail