FORMER NEWCASTLE UNITED midfielder Cheick Tiote has died at the age of 30.
The Ivorian, who moved from Tyneside to Chinese second tier outfit Beijing Enterprises in February, reportedly collapsed during a training session and was rushed to hospital where he was later pronounced dead.
The tenacious, tough-tackling Tiote was signed by the Magpies in 2010 after formative spells in Belgium and the Netherlands with Anderlecht, Roda and Twente.
He went on to make 156 appearances for the club but saw his game time limited in the 2016/2017 season, only featuring three times.
His last display came in January’s FA Cup victory over Birmingham while his solitary goal was a memorable one: a thumping, late, left-footed volley equaliser in the 4-4 draw with Arsenal in February 2011.
A spokesperson for Tiote confirmed the news of his death in a statement:
It is with deep sadness I confirm that Cheick Tiote sadly passed away earlier today after collapsing in training. 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.”
Though silverware eluded him during his time in the English north-east, he was a Belgian league winner on two occasions with Anderlecht while he was part of Steve McClaren’s Eredivisie title-winning side in 2009/2010.
Tiote made over 50 appearances for his country and played at both the 2010 and 2014 World Cups while he was an Africa Cup of Nations champion in 2015.
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RIP. Will never forget his goal against Arsenal a coupe years ago to make it
4-4.
Really sad , rip big man
It’s scary when young fit professionals die that like that. RIP.
Jesus RIP :(
RIP, so sad
I honestly can’t believe it, I got to meet him last year lovely man. His wife is due their baby this week
@spoken for: that makes it even worse.
Shocking getting younger God Rest Him
Such a shock. RIP
In the past 2 1/2 years I’ve lost 2 nephews who just collapsed and died of massive heart attacks. One was 42 and the other 40. They were both very active, sporty and fit.
So I would beg any young man out there to have their hearts checked at least once a year. I would also beg you not to assume any discomfort you might have is just indigestion.
I don’t know what’s happening with the health of young men, but you need to be mindful of it.
Good god, so sad RIP Cheick
FFS. Tragic news. Rest in peace hard man. Shocking.
So sad, so young, R.i.p
That’s shocking poor guy. RIP.
Sad news. But don’t like those emojis bein used for something like that. Takes away from it
Jesus. Was great for Newcastle during his first two seasons helping stabilize them back in the top flight and then challenge for the top 4. RIP
I’m shocked.
RIP
RIP.
Super player rip
Ah I heard the smog in Beijing was a killer but seriously?
rip
Jaysus I assume a heart issue. Terrible. Rip