Footballer Cheick Tiote dies after collapsing during training session

Ivory Coast international Cheick Tiote has died after collapsing during training with Beijing Enterprises, the club confirmed.

Beijing Enterprises said the former Newcastle midfielder died about one hour after losing consciousness in training.

"Around 6 p.m., June 5th, 2017, Mr. Cheik Tiote fainted during the normal training session," a team statement said. "The club immediately sent Tiote to the hospital, but unfortunately, Mr. Tiote died at 7 p.m. in the hospital. The club has already contacted his family.

"Here, Beijing Enterprises Club share our condolence with Mr. Tiote's family."

Tioté's agent Emanuele Palladino confirmed the death of his client in a short statement and asked for the privacy of the player’s family to be respected. Tioté’s wife, Madah, is expecting their third child together this week.

"It is with deep sadness that I confirm that my client Cheick Tiote sadly passed away earlier today after collapsing in training with his club Beijing Enterprises," he said in a short statement.

"We cannot say any more at the moment and we request that his family's privacy be respected at this difficult time."

"We ask for all your prayers."

Tiote also made 53 appearances for Ivory Coast and was in the squad that won the 2015 African Nations Cup. He played at the World Cup in both 2010 and 2014.

Cheick Tiote moved to China in February after signing with the second-division club from Newcastle.

The defensive midfielder spent six-and-a-half seasons on Tyneside, making over 150 appearances while playing in both the Premier League and Championship.

He previously played for Anderlecht in Belgium and Dutch club Twente.