TRIBUTES PAID TO EX-TOON ACE TIOTE

CHEICK TIOTE’S former Newcastle team-mates led the tributes to the midfielder, who has died after collapsing following training in China. The 30-year-old (above) died after a training session with Chinese second-tier side Beijing Enterprises, whom he joined in February after seven years with the Magpies. Newcastle players past and present paid tribute to the tough-tackling Ivory Coast international, along with Premier League clubs and players. Former Magpies and Republic of Ireland keeper Shay Given said: ‘Shocked & saddened to hear of the passing of Cheick Tiote, I pass on my condolences to his friends & family, way too young #ripcheickTiote.’ Newcastle goalkeeper Tim Krul said on Twitter: ‘Deeply sad to hear the news about Cheick.. One of my favourite teammates.. My thoughts are with his family.’ A statement from Newcastle said: ‘We are devastated to have learnt of the tragic passing of Cheick Tiote at the age of just 30. The thoughts of everyone at Newcastle are with Cheick’s family, friends, teammates and everyone connected with the clubs he represented.’ Papiss Cisse, who left St James’ Park for China last year, said: ‘Goodnight brother, You will be missed.’ Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany, a former team-mate of Tiote’s at Belgian side Anderlecht when both players were starting their careers, tweeted: ‘I am speechless and so incredibly sad. Cheick Tiote was one of the nicest and toughest teammates I have ever had. Rest in peace brother.’ EDEN HAZARD returned to London for surgery yesterday after breaking his right ankle on international duty with Belgium. The 26year-old’s recovery time has been set at three months. The injury is likely to end talk of a big-money transfer to Real Madrid.