George Baldock: Greek police issue statement after death of former Sheffield United star, cause of death reported

Greek police say there is no evidence that criminal activity caused the death of former Sheffield United defender George Baldock.

The death of the 31-year-old Greece international, who signed for Athens club Panathinaikos in the summer, was confirmed in a family statement issued on Wednesday.

A statement from Greece’s Ministry of Citizen Protection released on Thursday 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.

“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.”

Athens newspaper Kathimerini have reported that a post-mortem was completed in Athens on Thursday and 'drowning in water' has been given as the cause of death by the medical examiner. It went on to state that toxicology reports would take ‘several days’ to be returned.

The Football Association confirmed there would be a period of silence before Thursday night’s Nations League match between England and Greece at Wembley, and that players of both sides would wear black armbands.

Playyers and managers past and present have shared tributes to Baldock since the news broke on Wednesday night.

“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,” former boss Paul Heckingbottom posted. “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. George, it was a privilege to have known you.”

Oli McBurnie - the former Blades striker who also departed United in the summer and moved abroad, to join La Liga side Las Palmas - also paid tribute to Baldock. Posting on Instagram, he wrote: “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.”

Another former United teammate Ollie Norwood posted: “R.I.P to one of the best! You were such an infectious person, loved by everyone - always brightened up the dressing room! I'm heartbroken you're leaving a young family behind - your Blades family will do everything to look out for them. You'll be missed Georgie! Love you brother forever.”