Cheick Tiote of Newcastle United during the EFL Cup Quarter-Final match between Hull City and Newcastle United at KCOM Stadium on November 29, 2016 in Hull, England. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)

Cheick Tiote's family remain in the dark over what caused his sudden and tragic death at the age of just 30.

It was announced on Monday that The former Newcastle and Ivory Coast midfielder had collapsed while training with Chinese club Beijing Enterprises, but the cause is as yet unexplained with a post-mortem examination still to take place.

Press Association Sport understands Tiote's family is heading out to China after receiving the shock news in the hope of receiving some answers.

The player's agent, Emanuele Palladino, is also due to fly to Beijing to offer his assistance with arrangements.

Tiote, a Muslim observing Ramadan, had been with his new club since February after ending a six and a half-year stay at St James' Park.

His death sparked an out-pouring of affection on Tyneside for a man who had become something of a peripheral figure in the months immediately before his departure, but one who initially made a significant impact following his £3.5million arrival from Dutch club FC Twente in August 2010.

He helped Newcastle re-establish themselves in the Premier League in their first season back following promotion, and starred alongside Yohan Cabaye as they secured a surprise fifth-placed finish 12 months later.

PA Media