Ivorian football, Cheick Tiote have died, after collapsing during a training session on Monday.
Former Newcastle United player, was training with new club, second-tier Chinese side Beijing Enterprises when he passed out and was rushed to hospital.
But emergency treatment failed to revive him, and it was later confirmed that he had passed away.
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.
"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's representative Emanuele Palladino says.
A statement from Beijing Enterprises also confirmed the news of Tiote’s death.
It read: “At 6pm on June 5th, Mr Cheick Tiote fell unconscious to the ground during training.
“He was immediately taken to hospital, but unfortunately died at 7pm on June 5th. We have informed his relatives of his death.
“After joining Beijing Enterprises Group FC on February 5th 2017, Mr Tiote has made a great contribution to the club and has received plaudits from the coaching staff and team-mates for his superb ability and professionalism.
“We hereby express our sincere condolences following Mr Tiote’s unfortunate death.”
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.