Aston Villa winger Bertrand Traore revealed his pain at the death of his friend Christian Atsu.

The attacker scored a great goal for Villa against Leicester City in midweek.

Traore admits that any pain for his recent poor form was nothing compared to how he felt at learning of Atsu's death in the Turkey earthquakes in February.

“We talked for like 30 minutes after the game [in November in Turkey]," said Traore to reporters.

“I was really close with him.

“It was devastating news for me and really hard times. We tried to speak with his close friend to get some news but at the end he wasn't alive anymore. It is really hard and difficult for his family and for his friends.

“But I believe in God and the only thing I can do is pray for him. I hope he will rest in peace and God will protect his family and children. I will always have him in my heart."