George Baldock tragically dies aged 31: Former Sheffield United defender found in swimming pool of his home in Greece

Baldock, who joined Panathinaikos in the summer, was found dead at his home in the south of Athens on Wednesday, Reuters news agency reported, citing a police official. He was 31. Sheffield United, his former club, have posted a lengthy tribute to their former star.

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  WHAT SHEFFIELD UNITED POSTED

  The Blades wrote on X: “Sheffield United Football Club is shocked and extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player, George Baldock.

  “The defender left the club in the summer after seven years at Bramall Lane and was extremely popular with supporters, staff and team-mates who pulled on a red and white shirt alongside him.

  “The sincere condolences of everyone associated with Sheffield United are extended to George’s family and friends.”

• WHAT IS BELIEVED TO HAVE HAPPENED

  According to various reports, Baldock was found in the swimming pool of his Greek villa. His wife had been unable to contact him and alerted the owner of the villa. They found Baldock and subsequently informed the authorities. Police tried to resuscitate him but it was confirmed that he had died. A cause of death has not been publicised.

• TRIBUTES POUR IN

  Manchester United defender Harry Maguire posted a tribute on Instagram, having played with Baldock for Sheffield United, simply posting “RIP” with a broken-heart emoji.

  Instagram @harrymaguire93Meanwhile, a statement from the Greece national team read: “With profound sadness and sorrow, the national team and the Greek Football Federation bid farewell to George Baldock. There are no words to describe the human pain caused by the news of the unexpected loss of one of our own, young, man. The moment forces silence. Condolences to his family. Condolences from his second family.”

  WHAT ELSE HAS BEEN SAID?

  The England national team and two more of Baldock’s former clubs, MK Dons and Northampton Town, also responded to the devastating news.