Former Newcastle star Cheick Tiote dies aged 30

Cheick Tiote, who made more than 150 appearances for Newcastle United, has died of a heart attack.

The 30-year-old collapsed at the training ground on Monday and was taken to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

“At 6pm on June 5, Cheick Tiote fell unconscious to the ground during training,” read Beijing Enterprises’ statement.

“He was immediately taken to hospital but unfortunately died at 7pm on June 5. We have informed his relatives of his death.”

READ MORE: ‘Rest in peace’ – Football world mourns Tiote’s passing

His agent Emanuele Palladino said it was with “deep sadness” that he confirmed Tiote’s death.

“We cannot say any more at the moment and we request that his family’s privacy be respected at this difficult time,” Palladino said.

“We ask for all your prayers.”

The Ivory Coast international joined Chinese Second Division Beijing Enterprises Group FC five months ago, after spending seven years at Newcastle.

Tiote joined Newcastle from Dutch side FC Twente and scored his only goal for the Toon in the famous 4-4 draw with Arsenal at St. James’ Park. He left in February after only making three appearances in the Championship.

Former Newcastle and International teammate Demba Ba was one of the first to react to the news when he tweeted “May Allah gives grant [sic] you jannah brother Tiote”.

Tiote represented his country 52 times and played at both the 2010 and 2014 Fifa World Cups.

On Saturday, the 30-year-old helped his team secure a 4-2 victory against Baoding Ronda.

The midfielder started his career in Belgium with Anderlecht and also represented Twente and Roda JC in the Netherlands, as well as making 52 international appearances for Ivory Coast.