BEIJING, June 6 (Xinhua) -- Former Cote d'Ivoire midfielder Chieck Tiote died in hospital on Monday after his collapse during a training session with Beijing Enterprises Group Football Club.
In a statement, the Chinese first division club said Tiote was rushed to hospital immediately after he fainted on the field. However, emergency procedures failed to save him and he was pronounced dead the following day. A cause of death has yet to be released.
Following Tiote's death, Beijing Enterprises Group FC expressed their condolences and say his family have been contacted.
"Since joining Beijing Enterprise Group FC on Feb 5th, 2017, Mr Cheik Tiote has contributed to the club significantly. His football skills and professionalism have been much appreciated and highly praised by the club, the coaches and his teammates. Beijing BG football club expresses our deepest sorrow following Mr Tiote's passing," the club said.
In the wake of the tragedy, Chinese clubs and the national team all sent their condolences to Tiote's family, who moved to Beijing from England's New Castle and would have turned 32 in two weeks.
"R.I.P. Wish there is a soccer field in heaven," said the Chinese national team in a statement.
"Beijing is cold with drizzles tonight. Tiote, rest in peace," said Beijing Enterprises Group's crosstown rival Beijing Renhe club.