Everton are to pay tribute to former player Christian Atsu ahead of the club's game with Leeds United.
The death of the 31-year-old, missing since the devastating earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria earlier this month, was confirmed by his agent on Saturday morning. He had been playing in Turkey for Super Lig outfit Hatayspor.
Everton initially paid tribute to the Ghana international, who made 13 appearances during a year-long loan spell with the Blues during the 2014-15 season, on social media, saying the club was "deeply saddened". It has now confirmed a period of applause will be held before kick-off and players will wear black armbands during the match.
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It was announced on Saturday that the former Everton winger had been found 12 days after the earthquake hit the region. The tragedy has so far claimed the lives of more than 45,000 people.
"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," his agent Nana Sechere tweeted 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. I ask that whilst we make the necessary arrangements, that everyone would please respect the privacy of the family during this very difficult time."
Atsu had scored a 97th-minute winner in his final game for Hatayspor. The team is based in the southern city of Antakya, one of the regions most severely hit by the 7.8 magnitude earthquake.
In a statement posted online, Everton said: "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."
Everton has already detailed plans to support the humanitarian effort in relation to the earthquake. Match-issued shirts from Monday night's Merseyside derby at Anfield are to be signed and auctioned, with proceeds going to the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC)’s Turkey-Syria Earthquake Appeal.
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