(Last Updated On: 2017-06-05)
Former Newcastle midfielder Cheick Tiote has died aged just 30 after collapsing during a training session for Chinese Super League side Beijing Enterprises Group FC.
His agent Emanuele Palladino said: “It is with deep sadness that I confirm that my client Cheick Tiote sadly passed away earlier today after collapsing in training with his club Beijing Enterprises.
“We cannot say any more at the moment and we request that his family’s privacy be respected at this difficult time.
“We ask for all your prayers.”
Tiote moved to the second-tier China team from St James’ Park last February after six years on Tyneside, having only featured three times for Toon in the season just gone.
He had played 11 times for Beijing since the move. The club have yet to make a statement on Tiote’s health.
Tiote’s former team-mate at Newcastle, Demba Ba, tweeted: “may Allah gives grant you jannah brother Tiote.”
Argentinian midfielder Jonas Gutierrez, who also played with Tiote at Newcastle and battled back from testicular cancer, said: “Sad news. Always going to be remember our time together at #nufc . RIP my friend.
