Newcastle supporters are holding fundraising in memory of the late Christian Atsu, with the goal of completing the former winger’s plan to construct a new school in Ghana.
The 31-year-old former winger for Newcastle and Chelsea passed away under the debris of the horrific earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria.
Newcastle held a moment of silence for Atsu before their 2-0 loss to Liverpool on Saturday at St. James’ Park. Now, the fan group ‘Talk of Tyneside’ has launched a charitable project in his honour.
Atsu was a representative for the nonprofit organization ‘Arms Around the Child,’ with whom he was collaborating to aid in the construction of the new school, which was already in progress.
With more than £600 already raised, Talk of Tyneside is now pleading with supporters to contribute to their fundraising in order to assist him to complete the work he began in his native Ghana.
Talk of Tyneside said: “Christian Atsu was a well-loved figure on Tyneside and this has been highlighted by the scale of tributes paid to him by Newcastle United Football club and its fans.
“Following his passing, we were hoping to find a way to give supporters a way to show appreciation for his service to the club, and raising money for a fantastic charity that he worked with feels like the perfect way to do so.
Ellie Milner from Arms Around The Child added: “Christian touched the lives of so many with his charity work, we are determined to keep his legacy alive by raising funds to finish the school buildings in Senya Beraku – and support the children he loved so much.”
Atsu had been missing for 12 days before his agent Murat Uzunmehmet declared him dead.
“Atsu’s lifeless body was found under the rubble. Currently, more items are still being taken out. His phone was also found.”
Atsu spent four years of his career at Newcastle United, who declared he would be “fondly remembered” by all of the team members.
“We are profoundly saddened to learn that Christian Atsu has tragically lost his life in Turkey’s devastating earthquakes,” they said on social media.
“A talented player and a special person, he will always be fondly remembered by our players, staff and supporters. Rest in peace, Christian.”
