Former Chelsea winger Christian Atsu has sadly passed away following a severe earthquake in Turkey.
The 31-year-old spent three years at Chelsea before moving to Newcastle in 2016. Since then he has played for two other clubs with his most recent team, Hatayspor, confirming his passing on Saturday, February 18.
Their tribute on social media read: "Sorry for your loss. The funeral of our football player Christian Atsu, who lost his life under the collapse, is on his way to be sent to his hometown Ghana. We will not forget you, Atsu. Peace be upon you, beautiful person. There are no words to describe our sadness. Rest in peace.
"The funeral of our football player Christian Atsu, who lost his life under the rubble (debris), is on his way to be sent to his hometown, Ghana. We will not forget you, Atsu. Peace be upon you, beautiful person. There are no words to describe our sadness. REST in PEACE ATSU."
Chelsea and Newcastle both posted their well-wishes to Atsu after learning his whereabouts following the natural disaster was unknown. Both clubs have since posted tribute messages to Atsu following the tragic news of his passing.
Atsu made three Turkish Super Lig appearances this season scoring one goal. The Ghana international did not feature in a competitive outing for the Blues after joining from Porto in 2013. He was sent out on loan on several occasions with stints at fellow Premier League sides Bournemouth and Everton before being signed permanently by Newcastle after a successful loan spell in the 2016/17 season.
