File photo of Turkish goalkeeper Ahmet Eyup Turkaslan
New Delhi: Turkish goalkeeper Ahmet Eyup Turkaslan has died following the devastating earthquake in his country, the Yeni Malatyaspor has announced. He was said to be missing since February 6, before finally being confirmed as dead.
"Our goalkeeper, Ahmet Eyup Turkaslan, lost his life after being under the collapse of the earthquake. Rest in peace. We will not forget you," the club issued a statement on Twitter.
The 28-year-old Turkaslan has played six times for Turkish second-division club Yeni Malatyaspor after joining in 2021.
Former Crystal Palace and Everton winger Yannick Bolasie, who currently plays for Turkish second tier side Caykur Rizespor, shared his condolences on Twitter.
"RIP brother Eyup Ahmet Turkaslan. One moment you can see someone in the dugout, the next moment they're gone. My condolences to all his family and team-mates at Yeni Malatyaspor. Devastating to hear and wish we can all continue to help everyone in need," Bolasie tweeted.
The earthquake that shattered Turkey and parts of Syria, also affected Lebanon causing an overall death toll of close to 10,000 as on Wednesday mid-day. Most people died due to being trapped in the rubble, as reports indicate.