Ivory Coast's Cheick Tiote passes on

A former Newcastle and Ivory Coast midfielder, Cheick Tiote is dead! He died after collapsing in training with his Chinese team. Tiote was four months into a new career at Bejiing Enterprises when his death was announced today by agent Emanuele Palladino.

“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, Palladino said while announcing his death.

A statement from Beijing Enterprises added: “During a routine training session at 6pm today, Ivory Coast player Cheik Tioté suddenly fainted and the club immediately rushed him to hospital, but unfortunately efforts to save him failed and he passed away at 7pm. The player’s relatives have been informed. Beijing Enterprises football club expresses its deep sorrow and profound condolences for Mr Tiote’s untimely death.”