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Timbe pays tribute to “good friend and neighbour” Chiek Tiote


Harambee Stars attacker Ayub Timbe says he is yet to come to terms with the sudden demise of Ivorian midfielder Cheik Tiote.

Tiote, who made his name during his seven year stint at English Premier League club Newcastle United, collapsed while training with his China club Beijing Enterprises.

He was pronounced dead hours later while undergoing treatment at hospital.

Until his death, Tiote was a close friend and neighbour to Timbe who is based in the same city and plies his trade at Beijing Renhe.

“We lived barely three minutes away from each other. I found out (about his death) while at the airport on my way here. It is so sad,” Timbe told Nairobi News on Tuesday after reporting to the national team camp.

“He was a very calm person who would also joke a lot. He would almost always send through a text wishing me the best before every game despite the fact we played for rival teams. I will miss him,” he added.

Harambee Stars captain Victor Wanyama also took to Twitter to send his condolences.

Tiote is survived by an expectant wife and three children. His family is yet to publicly discuss his funeral and burial arrangements.