Rescuers find football star Atsu's body 12 days on from earthquake

FORMER Chelsea and Newcastle star Christian Atsu has been found dead nearly two weeks after the earthquake that has killed more than 45,000 people.

- Jaymi McCann

The ex-Premier League footballer had been due to leave Turkey on a flight just hours before the 7.8 magnitude quake But he chose to stay at his apartment in Antakya, Hatay, after scoring the winning goal in a Super Lig match on February 5.

The building was one of many to collapse when the disaster struck a few hours later.

The 31-year-old's Turkish agent Murat Uzunmehmet said: "Atsu's lifeless body was found under the rubble.

"His phone was also found." And his London-based agent Nana Sechere also tweeted yesterday: "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." Atsu started his Premier League career with Chelsea, before moving on to Newcastle United and Everton.