FORMER Newcastle midfielder Cheick Tiote has died aged 30 after collapsing during training.

Reports in China this afternoon have stated that Tiote took ill after training with Beijing Enterprises.

He collapsed and was then subsequently rushed to hospital where he was pronounced dead.

The Ivorian left Newcastle in February to play with the Chinese League One side. He was at St James’ Park for six seasons before that and played more than 150 times for the Tyneside club.

Tiote also played 52 times for his country and his passing has come as a massive shock to the world of football.

His agent Emanuel Palladino has confirmed his death and has asked for the family's privacy to be respected at this time.

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