RIP Cheick Tiote

Sad and shocking news about the death of Ivory Coast player Cheick Tiote, who passed away on Monday 5th June at the age of 30 whilst training with his club Beijing Enterprises (Beijing BG FC).

Many tributes and articles have been shared about this popular and friendly man, father, husband, son, colleague and friend.

One example from the Daily Mail wrote:

Supporters could not believe how good the holding midfield player was and he quickly became a fans' favourite, earning the nickname 'Mr T' because of his mohawk hairstyle and no-nonsense approach. Indeed, he was booked 56 times and sent off twice [in 156 appearances for Newcastle]. That, though, was part of his popularity, the cards a byproduct of his commitment. At a club like Newcastle, that counted for a lot among fans.

From a referee's perspective, Tiote was a hard no-holds-bar midfield player but also fair (giving as good as he receives, without complaining). In 2012, Mike Dean chose to talk with the then 25-year-old Newcastle player in the hope that he would listen and avoid a caution or two (see Mike Dean Masterclass Display). Although a thoroughly nice guy off the pitch, on the pitch Tiote was always close to getting cautions with his challenges.

 Mike Dean Talks with Newcastle's Cheick Tiote