Tributes pour in for 'special' George Baldock after death aged 31

Tributes from around the footballing world are pouring in after the death of former Sheffield United full-back George Baldock.

Baldock was found dead in the swimming pool of his home in Glyfada, southern Athens, on Wednesday night, with local police unable to resuscitate him upon their arrival at the scene.

The Greek international had joined Panathinaikos earlier this summer on a three-year contract following the conclusion of his deal at Sheffield United. He had spent seven years at Bramall Lane, making over 200 appearances for the club in the Premier League and Championship.

Tributes to Baldock from clubs, past team-mates and former professionals have started to stream in on social media, with many expressing their shock at the sudden passing of the 31-year-old, who started his professional career at Milton Keynes Dons.

Sheffield United wrote of their former player: 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."

Manchester City winger James McAtee, who spent the 2023/24 season on loan at Sheffield United, said: "I love you to bits brother, thank you for looking after me and also thank you for the memories that we shared together. Thoughts go out to your amazing family. Special player, special teammate, special person."

Former Sheffield United striker Oli McBurnie, now at Las Palmas, posted: "I genuinely can’t believe you have gone brother, I feel sick. One of the best people I’ve ever met, you were loved by everyone you came across. My heart is broken for your beautiful little family. Sleep well GB, I love you mate."

Crystal Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson, who was previously on loan at Sheffield United, shared: "Devastated to hear the news today. A friend, great teammate, great player and also a great family man. Sending all my love to all the family. RIP brother."

Paul Heckingbottom, who Baldock played under for two years at Sheffield United, shared: "Numbing to hear of George Baldock’s passing, a man with so much still ahead of him in life as a husband, father, brother and son", he wrote. "George was super person and fantastic professional who was admired and adored by all who worked with him. My prayers are with his loved ones right now."

Baldock graduated from MK Dons' academy in 2009 and his former employers were one of many clubs to share heartfelt tributes to the right-back.

"We are deeply devastated and saddened to learn about the shocking news of former Academy graduate and MK Dons player, George Baldock," the club posted. "George started his career at Stadium MK, where he worked his way through the youth ranks and made his senior career debut at the Club before reaching the heights of the Premier League in later years. Everyone affiliated with MK Dons shares a great love for George, Sam and the Baldock family, and we would like to share our sincerest condolences during these awful times."

Manchester United and England centre-back Harry Maguire posted: "RIP 💔", while former Arsenal and England midfielder Paul Merson shared: "Terrible news! RIP George Baldock ❤️ 🙏"

There was also a tribute paid by former Greece manager Gus Poyet, who handed Baldock his international debut in June 2022: "My love and condolences are with George's family and friends. I'm devastated. Rest in peace George," the Uruguayan wrote.

Greece take on England in a Nations League clash at Wembley on Thursday night – a game Baldock had not been selected for – and Mail Sport report that their players will wear black armbands in memory of their former team-mate.

A minute's silence is also expected to be held when Greece take on the Republic of Ireland on Sunday afternoon.

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