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Ex-Chelsea forward Atsu feared trapped under Turkiye’s devastating earthquake

The earthquake, which affected Turkiye and Syria, is said to have claimed the lives of more than 2,000 people.

• February 6, 2023
Christian Atsu
Christian Atsu [Credit: Getty Images]

Ghana international Christian Atsu is reportedly missing after a devastating earthquake hit Turkiye and Syria on Monday, according to Sky Sports.

The former Chelsea and Newcastle United player, who currently ply his trade in the Turkish Super Lig, is said to be missing after his teammates as well as members of the club’s technical staff at Hatayspor, had been pulled from rubble. 

In the early hours of today, an initial 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit south-eastern Turkey and northern Syria before a second earthquake of 7.5 magnitude followed.

The earthquake is said to have claimed the lives of more than 2,000 people in the border region.

Search for survivors remains ongoing in the countries.

The 31-year-old signed for Chelsea in 2013 but failed to make any appearances for the London club and went on multiple loan spells with several clubs before finally signing permanently for Newcastle United in 2017.

He made 121 appearances for the Magpies before leaving them in 2021. 

Newcastle United has since tweeted a message of support to their former player, saying: “Praying for some positive news, @ChristianAtsu20.”

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