Who was George Baldock?
THE world has been left in shock following the tragic death of former Premier League ace George Baldock.
Wembley are set to hold a minute’s silence for Baldock ahead of England‘s match against Greece tonight.
And the players will wear black armbands in tribute to George who sadly died on Wednesday.
Here is what SunSport know about George Baldock.
Who was George Baldock?
Born March 9, 1993, George Baldock was raised in Buckingham, England.
Baldock was of Greek descent through his grandmother and was eligible to represent Greece at an international level as well as England.
He started his footballing career playing for Milton Keynes Dons’ academy team while older brother Sam Baldock played for the senior side.
George made his first-team debut for MK Dons on May 1, 2010 in the League One clash with Brighton & Hove Albion which ended in a 0-0 draw.
Baldock then joined Northampton on a month’s loan over a year later but June 13, 2017, George made his big breakthrough by signing for newly promoted Championship side Sheffield United.
And then in 2019, Baldock helped the Blades secure promotion to the Premier League following a 12-year absence.
The full-back went on to represent Sheffield United for seven years making more than 219 appearances before his contract would expire
Then on May 29, 2024, Baldock joined Greek side Panathinaikos on a three-year contract, making his debut in the Europa League third qualifying round at home to Ajax.
What happened to George Baldock?
George Baldock was tragically found dead in his swimming pool on Wednesday, October 9, 2024.
The former Sheffield United defender was discovered at his home in Greece, where he played for Panathinaikos.
Greek media report his wife, who lives in England, was trying to track him down but she couldn’t contact him and started to worry.
She then informed the owner of the house in Glyfada, Athens, to check the property, where he was reportedly found dead in the swimming pool.
Police are now investigating and were pictured outside his home later in the evening.
Family statement
Baldock’s family later released a statement following the devastating news.
It read: “We can confirm that George has sadly passed away. As a family we are in shock at this terrible loss. We ask please that the media respect our privacy at this time.”
While club Panathinaikos added: “We are shocked, we are shocked by the loss of our George.
“The family of Panathinaikos mourns his untimely death. We stand with the family and loved ones of George Baldock.”
The Blades also paid tribute to Baldock in a statement that read: “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 teammates 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.”