Atsu who played for Premier League club, Newcastle, had earlier been misidentified and falsely reported as hospitalised last week
By Kehinde Okeowo
The body of Ghana international and former Newcastle winger, Christian Atsu has been found dead in the aftermath of the earthquake in Turkey after about two weeks of frantic search.
Atsu who was part of the Newcastle team which won promotion back to the Premier League in 2017 had been missing since earthquakes hit Turkey and Syria on February 6.
His agent, Nana Sechere made the disclosure via his Twitter handle according to report by Sky News on Saturday.
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Confirming the news Sechere said: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to announce to all well-wishers that sadly Christian Atsu’s body was recovered this morning.
“My deepest condolences go to his family and loved ones.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their prayers and support.
“I ask that whilst we make the necessary arrangements, that everyone would please respect the privacy of the family during this very difficult time.”
Also speaking about the development, his former club, Newcastle wrote: “profoundly saddened” by the death of Atsu, who was part of the team which won promotion back to the Premier League in 2017.
“A talented player and a special person, he will always be fondly remembered by our players, staff and supporters,” a statement said.
Atsu before his death also played for Premier League clubs including Chelsea, Bournemouth and Everton.
He joined Chelsea in 2013 before being sent on loan to Dutch club Vitesse.
He was earlier misidentified and falsely reported as hospitalised last week.
