Former Newcastle midfielder Cheick Tiote has passed away at the age of 30 after collapsing during training with Chinese club Beijing Enterprises. Reports indicate that he was taken to the hospital and emergency treatment was provided, but he passed away after that treatment.
Tiote’s agent, Emanuele Palladino, confirmed the sad news in a brief announcement on Monday.
"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."
-Source: Sky Sports
Tiote signed with Newcastle in 2010 after helping FC Twente win the Eredivisie, making over 150 appearances in his seven years with the club. He was also a senior international with the Ivory Coast, earning 52 caps and helping his country win the Africa Cup of Nations in 2015.
Tiote signed with Beijing Enterprises in February after falling out of the rotation at Newcastle following their relegation to the Championship, making just one league appearance for the Toons during the season. He had made 11 appearances for his new club after signing, trying to help them earn promotion to the Chinese SuperLeague.
Many of Tiote’s friends have taken to social media to express their grief, including former Newcastle teammate Demba Ba.
may Allah gives grant you jannah brother Tiote
— Demba Ba (@dembabafoot) June 5, 2017