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James Quinlan & Matthew Hobkinson

Rafa Benitez pays touching tribute to 'special' former Newcastle United player Christian Atsu

Rafa Benitez has paid tribute to 'special person' Christian Atsu after the former Newcastle United player died at the age of 31.

Atsu went missing after the tragic earthquakes on February 6, which hit Turkey and Syria. Sadly his body has since been discovered, with the ex-Newcastle and Chelsea star confirmed dead on Saturday morning.

Benitez, who managed Atsu during his time at St James' Park, has now paid his respects in a touching message ahead of Newcastle's match vs Liverpool in the Premier League.

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