Turkey earthquake: Former Newcastle midfielder Christian Atsu found dead in rubble, confirms agent

Ghana national and former Newcastle midfielder Christian Atsu has been found dead in Turkey beneath the wreckage of the residence where he lives, local media reported on Sunday.

Murat Uzunmehmet, Atsu’s manager confirmed the heart-wrenching news as he told DHA news agency that Atsu’s body was found under the rubble in the Turkish southern province of Hatay.

“Atsu’s lifeless body was found under the rubble. Currently, more items are still being taken out. His phone was also found,” Uzunmehmet said.

What makes Atsu’s death more painful is the fact that the footballer was scheduled to fly out of southern Turkey hours before the quake, but he opted to stay with the club after scoring the game-winning goal in the February 5 Super Lig match.