Turkish goalkeeper Ahmet Eyup Turkaslan has died following Monday’s devastating earthquake in his country, his club Yeni Malatyaspor announced, Eurosport Uk reports.
More than 5,000 people have lost their lives as a result of the 7.8-magnitude earthquake.
Turkaslan, 28, was the victim of one of many collapsed buildings in Turkey, the team said.
The club, who play in Turkey’s second tier, released a statement that read: “Our goalkeeper, Ahmet Eyup Türkaslan, lost his life after being under the collapse rubble of the earthquake. Rest in peace.
“We will not forget you, beautiful person.”
Former Crystal Palace and Everton winger Yannick Bolasie, who now plays in the Turkish second tier with Caykur Rizespor, also shared his condolences.
His post read: “RIP brother Eyup Ahmet Turkaslan. One moment you can see someone in the dugout the next moment they’re gone. My condolences to all his family and teammates at Yeni Malatyaspor. Devastating to hear and wish we can all continue to help everyone in need.”
Meanwhile, former Newcastle and Chelsea midfielder Christian Atsu has been found alive and transferred to hospital.
Hatayspor club vice president Mustafa Ozat provided an update, saying Atsu has been found.
“Christian Atsu was removed from the wreckage with injuries,” he told local media. “Unfortunately, our sporting director Taner Savut is still under the rubble.”
