Newcastle United fans are raising money to support a children’s charity in memory of Christian Atsu, the former player who died in the earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria.
The famous winger was an ambassador for the charity Arms Around the Child, which aims to build a school in his native Ghana.
Supporter group, “Talk of Tyneside,” said supporters wanted to show their appreciation for the former player, whose death was confirmed on Saturday, 12 days after the devastating earthquake.
According to sources, over £2,500 has been raised so far.
The 31-year-old plays for Turkish club Hatayspor but still has family living in the north-east.
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A Talk of Tyneside spokesperson said: “Christian Atsu was a popular figure on Tyneside and this was highlighted by the amount of tribute paid to him by Newcastle United Football Club and its fans.”
“After his death we were hoping to find a way to give fans a chance to show his appreciation for the club and raising money for an amazing charity he worked with seemed the perfect way to do it.”
Ellie Milner of Arms Around The Child said: “Christian has touched so many lives through his philanthropic work and we are committed to keeping his legacy alive by raising money to complete the school buildings in Senia Piraco – and to support the children who are most important to him.”
Atsu’s experience of growing up in Ghana with very little effort meant he never forgot his roots.
