George Baldock dies aged 31 as tributes pour in for former Sheffield United star
Former Premier League star George Baldock has died at the age of 31 after being discovered at his home.
According to Greek media, the right-back was found in his pool. It was, however, tragically too late to save him.
Baldock is best remembered for his spell at Sheffield United where he spent seven years from 2017 to 2024 before leaving this summer.
He helped the Blades return to the Premier League in 2019 as a key player for the club, playing every game the following campaign as they defied the odds to stay up.
George Baldock has tragically passed away at the age of 31
PA
The right-back could not save them from relegation the next season but remained loyal as they eventually bounced back after two years in the Championship.
Injuries took their toll last season as his contract was up for expiration and he was allowed to leave on a free transfer.
And he made the decision to move to Greek side Panathinaikos on a three-year contract, moving to the country of his international allegiance.
Despite being born in Buckingham, Baldock was eligible to play for Greece through his grandmother and was called up to the squad for the first time in May 2022 by Gus Poyet.
He went on to make his debut for the country the following month in a 1-0 win over Northern Ireland at Windsor Park, Belfast.
The defender went on to make 12 caps for Greece.
The Greek Super League posted a heartfelt tribute on social media, writing: "The entire Super League football family expresses its deep sorrow for the untimely loss of Panathinaikos and our National Team footballer, George Baldock, and extends its deepest condolences to his family and loved ones."
Fans have been left devastated by the news of Baldock's death, with one saying: "Sad news. May he rest in peace."
A second fan wrote: "Horrible news. May he rest in peace."
George Baldock moved to Greece this summer after seven years at Sheffield United
PA
And a third sent this tribute: "May God rest his soul. Very sad news and talent taken from us."
Sheffield United also posted a heartfelt tribute 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."
In the comments below, many fans posted their own tributes including favourite goals, moments and touching messages.
George Baldock signed for Panathinaikos in the summer
After signing for Panathinaikos, Baldock told the club website: "I wanted to change teams and goals, after seven years at Sheffield United.
"Essentially, I was looking for a great opportunity in my career and Panathinaikos gave it to me. When I learned of the interest from Panathinaikos, I was excited and everything happened very quickly.
"Something inside me gave me a particularly positive aura about Panathinaikos' outlook. It probably relates to the stories of my father, who has Greek roots, and the first football game he watched in his life was at the home of Panathinaikos in a league match.
"I could have gone to other leagues, but I chose Panathinaikos because I want to play in a leading team, win titles, and play in European competitions."