Newcastle fans and the rest of the football family have been left stunned by the death of Christian Atsu.
The Ghanaian – who made 121 appearances for Newcastle – had been missing since an earthquake struck Turkey on 6th February, which caused his apartment in Antakya, Hatay to collapse.
After a search lasting almost two weeks, Atsu has tragically been found dead underneath the rubble at the age of just 31 in what is a heartbreaking outcome.
Now, the Newcastle fans are planning a tribute.
What Newcastle fans are planning for Christian Atsu
Well, there will be a minute’s silence for Atsu ahead of Newcastle’s Premier League encounter against Liverpool at St James’ Park tonight.
In addition to that, the Toon Army have rallied together on Twitter to come up with a tribute of their own.
As first suggested by popular Newcastle account Mouth of the Tyne, there is likely to be a minute’s applause from the 30th minute – which was the number of Atsu’s shirt for the Magpies – to the 31st minute, with that number representing his age at the time of his devastating death.
The suggestion has already been seen by over 12,000 people on Twitter, with some in the comments section also suggesting that Atsu’s chant is sung during the applause.
For those of you who aren’t aware of the chant Newcastle fans had for their popular Ghanaian, you can see the lyrics below to the tune of He Is So Wonderful.
“Oh Christian Atsu, he is so wonderful, when he scores a goal, oh it’s beautiful, magical. When he runs down the wing he’s fast as lightening, It’s frightening, and he makes all the boys sing.”
Newcastle statement on Christian Atsu
After learning of Atsu’s death in the Turkey earthquake, Newcastle have released a statement.
It reads: “We are profoundly saddened to learn that our former player Christian Atsu tragically lost his life in Turkey’s devastating earthquakes.
“A talented player and a special person, he will always be fondly remembered by our players, staff and supporters. Our thoughts are with Christian’s loved ones and with the people of Turkey, Syria and neighbouring territories at this incredibly difficult time.”
Everyone here at HITC echoes that sentiment, and wish Atsu’s family all the best.
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