Report: Club president dispels Atsu rumours

Ghanaian forward Christian Atsu, who was previously reported to be buried under rubble following an earthquake in Turkey, is said to have been found alive, rescued, and is currently hospitalised.

Earlier today, A magnitude 7.8 earthquake on the Richter scale shook southern Turkey and northern Syria, claiming a reported estimate of 2500 lives and injuring or displacing thousands more.

Hatay was one of the most affected cities, and Christian Atsu, who plays for Hatayspor, was reported to be buried under rubble. Along with Atsu, Hatayspor’s sporting director Taner Savut and an unnamed club interpreter were also said to be unaccounted for.

Reports from A Bola claimed that the Ghanaian had been found and rescued and that the 31-year-old is currently hospitalised, as he sustained a foot injury and has difficulty breathing.

Ghanaian journalist Saddick Adams also claimed that he was in contact with the player's management, and he said that one of Atsu's teammates informed them that the player had been found and taken to the hospital.

However, later reports that included a statement from Hatayspor's honorary president, Lutfu Savas, said the player was yet to be found.

"The search and rescue efforts for Atsu are unfortunately continuing," Lutfu Savas confirmed.

According to this statement, the search for the Ghanaian forward continues.