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The Ivorian enforcer spent seven years on Tyneside, becoming a fan favourite thanks to his combative style of play.

In February, he joined Chinese League One side Beijing Enterprises for an undisclosed fee, making 11 appearances for the club.

A spokesman for Cheick Tiote says the former Newcastle midfielder has died aged 30 after collapsing at the club's training ground following a suspected heart attack.

His management company, Distinct, told Daily Star Online they were unable to comment further at this time.

In 2014, Bolton midfielder Fabrice Muamba collapsed and was revived on the pitch after his heart stopped for 78 minutes during a fixture against Bolton Wanderers.

And earlier this year, Tottenham youth coach and former England star Ugo Ehiogu collapsed at the club’s training ground.

The 44-year-old later passed away after it was confirmed he had suffered a heart attack.

Tiote arrived at Newcastle in 2010, becoming a key member of the first team during the Toon’s European march in 2011/12.

His most iconic moment in a black-and-white shirt came during Newcastle’s memorable 4-4 draw at St James’ Park, when the home side fought back from 4-0 down at half-time to earn a point.

(Image: GETTY)

Tiote scored the only goal of his Newcastle career during that game with a left-footed volley from 25 yards in the 87th minute to seal the result.

Former teammate Demba Ba paid tribute to his friend, tweeting: "May Allah gives grant you Jannah, brother Tiote."

Toon icon Alan Shearer also commented, writing: "Devastating news of the death of Cheick Tiote. RIP."

Gary Lineker said: "Dreadful news that Cheick Tioté has passed away. So young. So tragic."

And Ryan Taylor wrote: “Devastated to hear about my friend/teammate Cheick Tiote. One of the good guys, a lovely lovely man taken far too soon. Heartbreaking.”

Newcastle United released a statement on the shocking incident, which reads: "The thoughts of everyone at Newcastle United are with Cheick's family, friends, teammates and everyone connected with the clubs he represented.

"The Ivory Coast midfielder, who made more than 150 appearances for the Magpies between 2010 and 2017, was training with his current club, Bejiing Enterprises, on Monday when he collapsed.

"He was taken to hospital but sadly passed away.

"Cheick cemented his place in Newcastle folklore with his dramatic equaliser in the 4-4 draw against Arsenal in February 2011.

"Newcastle manager Rafa Benítez said: 'It is with great sadness that I have this afternoon learned of Cheick's death. In the all the time that I have known him, he was a true professional, dedicated and above all, a great man. Our hearts go out to his family and friends at such a sad time.'"

(Image: GETTY)

Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany also paid tribute, writing: "I am speechless and so incredibly sad. Cheick Tioté was one of the nicest and toughest teammates I have ever had. Rest in peace brother."

"I can't believe it. No words. I am broken. RIP Cheick," added Spanish Newcastle star Ayoze Perez.

Supporters have been left distraught by the news.

"Heartbreaking. Far too young to have gone," said one fan.

Another said: "Oh wow this is a shame, RIP Cheick, I was there when you scored that goal against Arsenal. Took my breath away."

"That's really horrible. Only 30 and leaves three kids behind. Poor family," a third said.