Former Newcastle United midfielder Cheick Tiote has died aged 30 after collapsing during training in China.
In his seven years at United the Ivory Coast player made over 150 appearances, including three last season.
He joined Chinese second-tier side Beijing Enterprises from Newcastle in February.
“It is with deep sadness I confirm that Cheick Tiote sadly passed away earlier today after collapsing in training,” said spokesman Emanuele Palladino.
“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.”
Born in the Ivory Coast, Tiote was part of the Ivorian squad that won the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations.
He began his professional career in Belgium with Anderlecht in 2005 before moving to Dutch side FC Twente, where he made 86 appearances and won the Eredivisie league title in the 2009-10 season under manager Steve McClaren.
Tiote, a defensive midfielder, then signed for Newcastle in 2010 for £3.5m.
In February 2011, he scored a memorable goal as Newcastle United came back from 4-0 down to draw with Arsenal in the Premier League.
He joined Beijing Enterprises Group FC for an undisclosed fee in February 2017.
A statement from Newcastle said: “We are devastated to have learnt of the tragic passing of Cheick Tiote at the age of just 30.
“The thoughts of everyone at Newcastle United are with Cheick’s family, friends, team-mates and everyone connected with the clubs he represented.”
Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez said: “It is with great sadness that I have this afternoon learned of Cheick’s death.
“In all the time that I have known him, he was a true professional, dedicated and above all, a great man. Our hearts go out to his family and friends at such a sad time.”
“Cheick was one of the best we had in terms of his attitude,” Newcastle legend Peter Beardsley told BBC Radio 5 live.
“He had a wicked sense of humour, he was top class and he will certainly be missed in this city.”
Beardsley, who is still on the staff at Newcastle, added: “He was flat out every day in training and was a brilliant example to the kids at our club. He loved a tackle – he wasn’t horrible, but very aggressive. Every time he saw the ball he went for it.
“He was also really funny in the dressing room. He had a brilliant smile and he lit up a room when he smiled. He was fantastic.
On Tiote’s goal against Arsenal, Beardsley added: “It was an unbelievable volley and it couldn’t have happened to a nicer person.
“I can still see him running up the end of the pitch. He must have run 70 metres to celebrate with the fans.”
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