Former Newcastle Midfielder Cheick Tiote Dies in Training

Cheick Tiote, an Ivory Coast international and former midfielder for Newcastle United, died while training for his current club, Beijing Enterprises, according to a statement from his agent released to the BBC and Sky Sports.

"It is with deep sadness that I confirm that my client Cheick Tiote sadly passed away earlier today after collapsing in training with his club Beijing Enterprises," agent Emanuele Palladino said. "We cannot say any more at the moment and we request that his family's privacy be respected at this difficult time. We ask for all your prayers."

Tiote began his senior team career in the Netherlands before moving from FC Twente to Newcastle in 2010. Tiote played for the northeast club for seven seasons before moving to Beijing Enterprises, a second-tier club in China. On the international level, Tiote appeared in 52 games for Ivory Coast. He was 30 years old.