Former Newcastle midfielder Cheick Tiote has died aged 30 after collapsing in Beijing. His agent Emanuele Palladino confirmed the news on Monday afternoon, saying: “I confirm that my client Cheick Tiote passed away today after collapsing in training with his club Beijing Enterprises.”

Tiote begun his pro career in Belgium with Anderlecht, a period which included a loan spell with Roda JC. From there he moved to FC Twente in the Netherlands, establishing himself as an effective defensive midfielder, making 86 appearances for the Dutch side.

He moved to the Premier League to join Newcastle in 2010 and made over 150 appearances for the Toon before leaving for China in February this year.

Source: The Mirror