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07th Feb 2017

Newcastle fans distraught as fan favourite Cheick Tioté leaves the club for giants of world football

Thanks for the memories, Cheick.

Tom Victor

Newcastle United fans can’t hide their love for Cheick Tioté.

https://twitter.com/lewinick/status/687015361368178689

The Ivorian midfielder has gone from strength to strength since scoring a dramatic equaliser in a 4-4 draw with Arsenal under Alan Pardew.

https://twitter.com/popeformosus/status/336139334677823489

He has made a real impact on games ever since arriving from FC Twente.

https://twitter.com/deannufc1892/status/551417545325301761

He has been a model of consistency throughout his six-and-a-half years on Tyneside.

So, when interest came in from the Chinese Super League, the Toon Army were devastated by the news.

https://twitter.com/Nuovocastrian/status/686697390640881664

Tioté had been linked with Shandong Luneng, where he would have linked up with former St James’ Park teammate Papiss Cissé, but has instead completed a move to second-tier outfit Beijing BG.

The club was only founded in 2004, but have already attracted luminaries of world football such as former Aalesunds FK danger-man Leke James and Rubin Okotie, who has played in three different leagues with ‘Bundesliga’ in the name.

There was some surprise at Tioté’s final destination.

However, all things considered, Newcastle fans have come together to wish the midfielder well as he takes the next step in a career that will definitely be remembered for more than just that one goal. We promise.

Catch up with this week’s episode of 888sport Football Friday Live