'Impossible not to love him' - George Baldock's family release emotional statement after death of Sheffield United hero

Former Sheffield United defender George Baldock drowned while swimming in the pool at his home in Athens, his family have said.

Greek police earlier confirmed there was no evidence that criminal activity caused the death of the 31-year-old Greece international, who signed for Athens club Panathinaikos in the summer.

“We are heartbroken with the sudden passing of our beloved George. We can confirm that a post-mortem examination has found that George tragically drowned whilst swimming in the pool at his home in Glyfada, Athens,” a statement from Baldock’s family read.

“George, you were the most special father, fiance, son, brother, uncle, friend, team-mate and person. Your enthusiasm and infectious personality brought so much love to those that were fortunate enough to know you and those that adored you from the stands.

“We will forever cherish the special memories we have of you and you will continue to live on in your beautiful son. You were due to fly home today for us to celebrate his first birthday together, but instead we mourn your loss.

“As a family it has been incredibly touching, but equally so very difficult to read the huge number of tributes written by those that knew George and from those whose life he touched.

“It was impossible not to love him. We ask that you please continue to respect our privacy at this devastating time as we begin to process our grief.”

Baldock – who left the Blades in the summer to join Panathinaikos – won 12 caps for Greece, after being eligible to represent them through his grandmother. He was last involved in their squad for the Euro 2024 play-off defeat to Georgia.

There was a period of silence before Thursday night’s Nations League match between England and Greece at Wembley, with Baldock’s picture shown on the big screens.

Players of both sides also wore black armbands and the Greece team held up his shirt before kick-off.

Greek police said in a statement that there had been no evidence that criminal activity attributed to Baldock’s death.

“A preliminary investigation has been carried out by the Attica Security Directorate,” a statement from Greece’s Ministry of Citizen Protection read.

“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.”