Police have provided an update on the investigation of former Premier League defender George Baldock, who died on Wednesday (9 October) aged 31.
The ex-Sheffield United football player was found dead in the swimming pool of his house in Glyfada, in the south of the Greek capital, Athens.
After emergency services were called, police tried to resuscitate him at the scene, but they could not revive him, and medical emergency units confirmed his passing, according to Reuters via a police official.
The Britain-born Greek international spent seven years with the Blades, before moving to Panathinaikos in the Greek Super League upon the expiry of his contract in the summer.
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Greek police have stated that there is no evidence linking the death of Baldock to criminal activity.
A statement from Greece’s Ministry of Citizen Protection today (10 October) read: “A preliminary investigation has been carried out by the Attica Security Directorate.
“A forensic pathologist was called to the scene and examined the body with no evidence of criminal activity.
“In addition, the police searched the house to determine if there are any traces of a burglary, with a negative result.
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“Also, a specialised team of the Criminal Investigation Directorate of the Police carried out a check at the house in order to exclude the possibility of criminal activity,” it concluded.
The Football Association also confirmed that ahead of the clash tonight between England and Greece, there would be a period of silence, and both sides would wear black armbands.
Following his untimely death, his family released a statement, reading: "We can confirm that George has sadly passed away.
"As a family, we are in shock at this terrible loss."
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The sports world also weighed in with tributes, as his last club, Panthinaikos, said in a statement: "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."
Sheffield United, the club he's best known for representing, also said: "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."
The full back made just four appearances for Panathinaikos after signing the three-year contract, playing his last game against Olympiakos on Sunday, a goalless draw.
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Baldock received 12 caps for Greece throughout his career, with the nation set to face off against England in the Nations League tonight (10 October), though Baldock hadn't been selected.
The Greece national team also stated: "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."
After starting his professional career with Football League side MK Dons in 2009, he made 100 appearances for the side, along with loan spells to sides such as Northampton Town, Tamworth and Oxford United.
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He then joined Sheffield United in 2017, making 219 appearances for the side, contributing to their promotions to the Premier League in both 2019 and 2023.
Bladock chose to represent Greece internationally, as he qualifies through his grand mother, being called up for the first time in May 2022 and making his debut in a 1-0 win over Northern Ireland.
Topics: Football, UK News, Premier League
Joshua Nair