Tragic: Christian Atsu's Lifeless Body Recovered From Turkey Earthquake

The 31-year-old Hatayspor forward's lifeless body has been recovered from the rubbles nearly two weeks after the 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck.

More than 45,000 people have now been confirmed dead from the earthquake.

Senior Hatayspor officials reported last week Tuesday that Atsu had been pulled out from the wreckage alive and injured only to backtrack on those claims a day later.

In a post on Twitter, Atsu's agent, Nana Sechere, has announced Atsu has passed on.

"It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to announce to all well wishers that sadly Christian Atsu’s body was recovered this morning," he tweeted.

"My deepest condolences go to his family and loved ones. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their prayers and support.

"I ask that whilst we make the necessary arrangements, that everyone would please respect the privacy of the family during this very difficult time."

Former Chelsea club captain John Terry tweeted: "RIP my friend."

Turkish giants Galatasaray added: "We are sad to learn that Atakas Hatayspor football player Christian Atsu lost his life in the earthquake that stifled our country.

"Our condolences to Christian Atsu's family, fans and Hatayspor community."

Atsu was capped 65 times for Ghana and named player of the tournament at the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations.

He scored a 90th minute winner for Hatayspor against Kasimpasa in his last game for the club.

Atsu counts FC Porto, Everton and Bournemouth among his former clubs.

Atsu is survived by wife Marie-Claire Rupio Atsu and their three children.