Ghanaian footballer Christian Atsu killed in Turkey earthquake, body found under rubble says his agent

 

Digital Desk: Ghana national footballer and former Newcastle midfielder Christian Atsu's body was discovered beneath the debris of his home in Turkey, local media reported Saturday, citing his management.

Atsu's Turkish manager, Murat Uzunmehmet informed the DHA news agency on Saturday that his body had been discovered under rubble in the Turkish southern region of Hatay.

"In the rubble, Atsu's lifeless body was discovered. Currently, additional objects are being removed. His phone was also discovered "Uzunmehmet spoke to reporters in Hatay, Turkey, where the athlete's body was discovered. 

Thousands of buildings in Turkey were turned to rubble, including multi-story apartment buildings full of occupants.

Nana Sechere, the agent of a Ghanaian footballer, tweeted: "It is with heavy hearts that I must inform all well-wishers that Christian Atsu's body was retrieved this morning. My heartfelt sympathies go out to his family and loved ones. I'd like to take this time to express my gratitude to everyone for their prayers and support."

"I urge that everyone please respect the privacy of the family during this very difficult time while we make the required arrangements." 

Christian Atsu signed with Hatayspor, a Turkish Super Lig team headquartered in the southern province of Hatay near the area of Turkey's major earthquake, in September.

Atsu was scheduled to leave southern Turkey hours before the earthquake, but Hatayspor's management revealed on Friday that the Ghanaian chose to stay with the club after scoring the game-winning goal in a Super Lig encounter on February 5.