Former Newcastle midfielder Cheick Tiote has died at the age of 30 after collapsing during a training session in China.
Tiote, who only moved to Chinese second division outfit Beijing Enterprises four months ago, was reportedly rushed to hospital on Monday.
However, it soon emerged that the Ivorian had passed away, with his agent confirming his death in a statement.
‘I can confirm that my client Cheick Tiote sadly passed away today after collapsing in training with his club Beiojing Enterprises,’ said Emanuele Palladino.
Tiote begun his pro career in Belgium with Anderlecht, a period which included a loan spell with Roda JC. From there he moved to FC Twente in the Netherlands, establishing himself as an effective defensive midfielder, making 86 appearances for the Dutch side.
He moved to the Premier League to join Newcastle in 2010 and made over 150 appearances for the Toon before leaving for China at the start of the 2016-17 campaign.
Tiote was plying his trade in the second tier in China for Beijing Enterprises. He had played 17 times for the club before his death.
Demba Ba, Tiote’s former teammate at Newcastle, was among the first to tweet his respects.
“May Allah gives grant you jannah brother Tiote,” the striker posted.
Jonas Gutierrez also tweeted a tribute, saying:
“Very said to hear about the pass away of Tiote. RIP my friend. #nufc.”
May his soul rest in peace, Amen…
