Mohammed Kudus paid a heartwarming tribute to late Ghanaian international Christian Atsu after scoring a stunning free-kick for Ajax.
On the back of the devastating earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria earlier in the month, it was announced that Atsu, who played for Turkish Super Lig side Hatayspor, was trapped under rubble.
After weeks of uncertainty, it was confirmed by Atsu’s agent that his body was found on Saturday.
A statement read: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to announce to all well-wishers that sadly Christian Atsu’s body was recovered this morning. My deepest condolences go to his family and loved ones. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their prayers and support.
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“I ask that whilst we make the necessary arrangements, that everyone would please respect the privacy of the family during this very difficult time.”
On Sunday afternoon, Ajax man Kudus, who played with Atsu for Ghana scored a stunning free-kick to put the Dutch side 3-0 up against Sparta Rotterdam.
Kudus celebrated his goal by lifting his shirt up, his undershirt had the words ’R.I.P Atsu’ on it as he paid tribute to his late friend.
Atsu’s former clubs, Newcastle United and Chelsea also paid tribute to their former player before their Premier League matches against Liverpool and Southampton respectively.
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Ex Magpies boss, Rafa Benitez, who coached Atsu said: “It’s really sad because he was a nice, nice, special person. He was a good professional. I don’t talk about if he’s a good player or not, he was a nice lad and a good player, but especially a really nice person.
“So a special person and everybody always, you can see the pictures, always with a smile playing or not playing.”
Whilst Chelsea tweeted: “Everyone at Chelsea Football Club is devastated to learn of the tragic passing of our former player, Christian Atsu. Our thoughts go out to his family and friends.”
Topics: Ajax, Football, Eredivisie
Marcus Chan