Former Newcastle midfielder Cheick Tiote dead

Former Newcastle midfielder Cheick Tiote has died at the age of 30 after collapsing during a training session in China.

Ivory Coast international Tiote moved to China in February to play for second division side Beijing Enterprises and he was training with his club when he collapsed.

He was taken to hospital but it has now been confirmed that he passed away after emergency treatment.

Tiote arrived at Newcastle in 2010 from FC Twente and played seven seasons for the club, the first six of those in the Premier League.

But Tiote would only make one Championship appearance in his seventh season at St James’ Park and he made the move to China last year.

Tiote’s representative Emanuele Palladino said: “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.”