Former Newcastle and Chelsea star Christian Atsu has been rescued after becoming trapped under rubble in a huge earthquake, according to reports.

It is understood Atsu was on the ninth floor of an apartment block when two earthquakes rocked Turkey today, devastating at least 12 cities and killing 1,000s.

Rescuers desperately tried to find Ghana star Atsu after he was caught up in the first powerful 7.8 magnitude quake.

Several members of his new team Hatayspor had to be rescued from their homes after the earthquake struck at 4am local time.

After a huge search effort, the ex-Newcastle winger has been rescued and is in hospital, reports A Bola.