Christian Atsu’s final moment as a player was scoring a match-winning free kick

Christian Atsu’s last touch as a footballer was scoring a brilliant free-kick, a moving video has revealed, after the player was found dead on Saturday morning.

The body of Atsu, 31, was found under rubble 12 days after a devastating earthquake in Turkey.

He played for Hatayspor in Antakya, Hatay Province, which was badly affected by the natural disaster in southern Turkey and northern Syria, which is known to have killed more than 40,000 people.

And poignant images have emerged of Ghana’s Atsu’s last match, a 1-0 win against Kasimpasa on February 5.

The former Newcastle winger stepped up on 97 minutes to take a set piece, before doubling it into the corner to spark wild celebrations.

Heartwarming images of Christian Atsu’s final moments as a soccer player have emerged (left)

The former Newcastle winger scored a fine match-winning free kick for Hatayspor on February 5

Ghanaian Atsu, 31, has been found dead after the devastating earthquake in Turkey

The referee blew the final whistle seconds later, confirming a crucial victory for Hatayspor, who moved out of the relegation zone and a point ahead of their opponent Kasimpasa in the battle against relegation.

His hit led to joyous scenes, with fans and coaches jumping for joy, and teammates harassing Atsu to congratulate him.

Hatayspor have since withdrawn from the Super Lig, the top-tier division in Turkey.

Atsu had been missing since the 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck in the early hours of February 6.

However, one of his agents has confirmed that his body has been discovered under the rubble.

Murat Uzunmehmet revealed the devastating news 12 days after the disaster.

He told reporters on Saturday: ‘Atsu’s lifeless body was found under the rubble.

‘Currently, more items are still being put out. His phone was also found.

Another of Atsu’s agents, Nana Sechere, also announced the news.

“It is with the greatest regret that I have to announce to all supporters that Christian Atsu’s body was unfortunately recovered this morning,” he said.

‘My condolences to his family and loved ones.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their prayers and support.”

Atsu’s Hatayspor club called him “a beautiful person” and said there were “no words to describe our sadness”.

“The funeral of our football player Christian Atsu, who lost his life in the landslide, is on his way to be sent to his hometown, Ghana,” they said on Twitter, covering up his profile picture.

‘We will not forget you, Atsu. Peace be with you, beautiful person.

‘There are no words to describe our sadness. Rest in peace.

The whereabouts of the Ghanaian international were unknown after the 7.8 magnitude earthquake

Atsu’s relatives waited for news as search and rescue operations were carried out in Turkey.

Atsu enjoyed an extremely impressive career, appearing for Newcastle and Chelsea (right)