The body of footballer Christian Atsu, who was killed in the devastating earthquake which struck Turkey, has been returned to Ghana.
Atsu’s body was returned to Accra on Sunday, with his coffin carried away by Ghana’s armed forces.
The former Premier League player was found dead under his home in southern Turkey on Saturday.
The 31-year-old had been playing for the Turkish club Hatayspor. He had also played for Ghana’s national side, and had spells at Everton and Newcastle.
Club manager Fatih Ilek said Atsu had been scheduled to leave Turkey hours before the quake hit, but decided to stay after scoring an important goal for his team.
Speaking at Kotoka airport in the capital Accra, Ghana’s Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia said: “We hoped against hope, every day that passed, we prayed and prayed. But alas, when he was found, he was no more.”
Mr Bawumia pledged that the footballer would be given a “befitting” burial, adding: “It is a painful loss, a very painful one.”
Atsu’s family and Ghana’s ambassador to Turkey, Francisca Ashietey-Odunton, accompanied the flight to Accra, which landed at 7.25pm GMT.
The coffin was met by relatives, government officials and representatives of the Ghana Football Association and is due to be transported to a military hospital morgue.
The Ghana Football Association said Atsu’s body was recovered on Saturday morning after “almost two weeks of emotional torture".
Tributes have poured in for the player, with his agent Nana Sechere confirming the news of his death on Saturday.
He said: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to announce to all well-wishers that sadly Christian Atsu’s body was recovered this morning.
“My deepest condolences go to his family and loved ones. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their prayers and support.”
Meanwhile, Atsu’s club Hatayspor said: “There are no words to describe our sadness.
“We will not forget you, Atsu. Peace be upon you, beautiful person."
