He played like Lionel Messi - Emmanuel Clottey eulogizes ex-Black Stars teammate Christian Atsu

A former Black Stars striker, Emmanuel Clottey has eulogized former teammate, Christian Atsu.

Atsu has been confirmed dead on Saturday after he was trapped under rubble for 12 days following an earthquake that struck Turkey.

Atsu’s lifeless body was pulled from rubble of his collapsed apartment where he was pronounced dead.

The news has triggered an outpouring of tributes from footballers and football club administrators.

However, Clottey, who played with Atsu at the 2013 AFCON in South Africa, Atsu’s footballing ability was supreme and akin to Paris Saint-Germain forward Lionel Messi.

“He is more like Messi. Very energetic, respectful, a hardworking guy,” he told Citi Sports.

Atsu's remains arrived in the country on Sunday with the family expected to announce details for the funeral soon.