George Baldock: Tributes paid as former Sheffield United stalwart found dead at the age of 31

A firm favourite among the Bramall Lane faithful, Baldock spent seven years with the Blades before joining Greek side Panathinaikos in May.

According to reports in the Greek media, he was found dead in his swimming pool this evening (October 9).

A statement issued by the Greek Super League read: “The entire Super League football family expresses its deep sorrow for the untimely loss of Panathinaikos and our National Team footballer, George Baldock, and extends its deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.”

Fans have taken to social media to pay tribute to Baldock, who made over 200 appearances for Sheffield United after joining from Milton Keynes Dons in 2017.

He was part of two Championship promotion-winning campaigns during his time in South Yorkshire and represented the Blades in the Premier League.

One fan described Baldock as “a fantastic footballer and a brilliant man who understood what it meant to be a Blade”.

Another said: “What a player and what a man.”