Newcastle have been left heartbroken by the news that Christian Atsu was found dead following an earthquake in Turkey.
After a 12-day search for the Ghanaian, it was sadly revealed that the collapse of his apartment in Antakya, Hatay devastatingly caused his death at the age of 31.
Newcastle are set to hold a minute’s silence for Atsu ahead of tonight’s Premier League meeting with Liverpool, while some fans are planning a tribute of their own in the 30th minute.
Now, Ciaran Kelly – a journalist for the Chronicle – has shared a change Newcastle have made to St James’ Park for today in honour of the man who made 121 appearances for them.
What’s the story?
Well, Newcastle decided to put the middle of their five flags at St James’ Park at half-mast after hearing the news of Atsu’s death.
For those of you who don’t know the significance of a half-mast flag, also referred to as a half-staff flag, it is done as a mark of respect for someone who has passed away.
You can see a photo of the St James’ Park flag at half-mast in Kelly’s tweet below.
It just goes to show the impact Atsu had on everybody at Newcastle during his five-year stay on Tyneside from 2016 to 2021.
The Ghanaian helped guide Newcastle to the Championship title in 2017 to send the Magpies back into the Premier League at the first time of asking.
In total, Atsu scored eight goals and provided ten assists for Newcastle.
Newcastle will remember Christian Atsu
During his time at Newcastle, Atsu made Tyneside a warmer place.
As detailed by the Chronicle, he would often stop to talk to reporters to say thank you to the fans for their support, whether the Magpies had won, lost or drawn.
Atsu also set up a charity called Arms Around the World, and his desire to make the world a better place is something we can all learn from.
Everyone at HITC pays their respects to Atsu and wish his family well – may he rest in peace.
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