CHELSEA have paid a touching tribute to former player Christian Atsu, who has passed aged 31.
The Ghanian was one of the thousands of people to tragically lose their lives in the fatal earthquakes which rocked Turkey and Syria earlier this month.
Atsu was trapped under the rubble at Turkish Super Lig side Hatayspor’s headquarters for two weeks before his body was found.
And Chelsea, like many in the footie world, paid tribute to the late player in an obituary on their website.
It read: “It is with enormous sadness that Chelsea Football Club receives the news that Christian Atsu is confirmed as one of the many victims of the dreadful earthquake in Turkey and Syria.
“Atsu was a Chelsea player between 2013 and 2017 having signed from Porto.
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“He did not make a competitive appearance for our men’s first team having spent his seasons as a Blue out on loan, although he featured in some pre-season games.
“During those years, the Ghanaian international was named the Player of the Tournament at the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, also scoring the Goal of the Tournament as Ghana finished runners up.
“His loans took him to Vitesse, Everton, Bournemouth, Malaga and Newcastle before he was transferred permanently to St James’ Park.
“He moved to Turkey to play for Hatayspor last year.
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“Chelsea sends our heartfelt condolences to Christian’s family and friends and to all those affected by the earthquake tragedy.”
Blues legend John Terry paid his own tribute to Atsu, tweeting a picture of the late winger and saying: “RIP my friend.”
Atsu’s former club Newcastle also paid tribute, with an excerpt of their statement reading: “We are profoundly saddened to learn that our former player Christian Atsu tragically lost his life in Turkey’s devastating earthquakes.
“A talented player and a special person, he will always be fondly remembered by our players, staff and supporters.”
Everton also followed suit, tweeting: “We are deeply saddened by today’s news that Christian Atsu has been found dead following the earthquake in Turkey earlier this month.
“Our thoughts are with his family, friends, colleagues at @Hatayspor_FK and everyone affected by this tragic event that has claimed so many lives.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
