Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
Sport
Charlotte Coates

Everton and Liverpool pay tribute to Christian Atsu as football world reacts to news of death

Everton are 'deeply saddened' by the death of former player Christian Atsu after the earthquakes in Turkey and Syria.

Atsu spent the 2014/15 season on loan at Goodison Park from Chelsea and made five appearances for the club.

The news that his body had been recovered was confirmed on Saturday (February 18), with the former Everton winger found 12 days after the earthquake hit the region causing a catastrophic loss of life.

Everton posted a tribute on Saturday morning for the 31-year-old: "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 and everyone affected by this tragic event that has claimed so many lives."

Liverpool also posted a message on their Twitter page: "Such tragic news. The thoughts of everyone at Liverpool Football Club are with Christian’s friends and family, as well as all those affected by the devastating loss in Turkey and Syria."

Atsu's former captain at Chelsea, John Terry, has also paid tribute to his ex-team-mate by posting: "RIP my friend" on his social media accounts.

Another one of Atsu's former club's, Newcastle, also made a heartfelt tribute to their ex-star: "We are profoundly saddened to learn that Christian Atsu has 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. Rest in peace, Christian."

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.