Romelu Lukaku makes touching gesture towards late Christian Atsu after scoring

• Romelu Lukaku was on target for Inter in the 3-1 win over Udinese on Saturday, February 18
• The Belgian dedicated his penalty to Christian Atsu, who was confirmed to have passed away after the earthquake in Turkey
• Atsu and Lukaku had a brief stint together at Everton before the Ghana international joined Bournemouth on loan

Inter ace Romelu Lukaku had a touching moment on Saturday as he dedicated his goal to the late Christian Atsu.

Hours before Inter welcomed Udinese, it was confirmed by Atsu’s representatives that the midfielder had been found under rubble, 12 days after an earthquake devastated parts of Turkey.

Atsu passed away days after playing what would be his last game for Turkish club Hatayspor.

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Prior to his move to Turkey, the Ghanaian enjoyed a stint in the Premier League where he represented the likes of Newcastle, Bournemouth and Everton.

It was at Everton where Atsu met with Lukaku, and the two grew close as teammates.

Lukaku opened the scoring for Inter in the 20th minute on Saturday from the penalty spot after his initial spot kick was saved but a retake was ordered.

After scoring, Lukaku pointed to the sky in a tribute to Atsu, and immediately after the game, he confirmed that indeed the Ghanaian was on his mind hours after his death was confirmed.

“Rest easy brother. This one is a hard one to take … It was amazing to be around you. You’re humbleness and love for God. The way how you worked in training. The love you had for your family and kids.

'May God give all the strength to your kids and family … God bless your soul. Love you always.” He wrote on Instagram.

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Juventus star Danilo also paid tribute to Atsu, and so did Conte, who briefly managed the midfielder at Chelsea in 2016.

Atsu’s wife in tears during tribute

Sports Brief also reported on Christian Atsu’s wife and how she was inconsolable following the midfielder’s death.

In an emotional scene at the St James' Park on Saturday, February 18, the family of Atsu were present and the partner of the player could not hold back as she broke down in tears during the tribute.

Atsu's wife Claire-Marie Rupio has been with the player since his days playing for Portuguese outfit Porto, and the couple have three children together.