Man United's heartbroken Harry Maguire shares tribute to ex-Sheffield United defender George Baldock

Harry Maguire has paid an emotional tribute to former Premier League defender George Baldock, who died on Wednesday.

The 31-year-old full-back spent seven years at Sheffield United before joining Greek Super League side Panathinaikos on a free transfer last summer.

On Wednesday night, the Blades released a statement about his shock passing: "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 team-mates 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."

Shortly after Baldock's passing was announced, Manchester United defender Maguire, a product of the Sheffield United academy, took to Instagram to pay tribute to the Greece international: "Rip," wrote Magure alongside a picture of the defender.

As the devastating news of Baldock's passing spread, tributes poured in from clubs across the English game, while the Professional Footballers Association said: "Everyone at the PFA is deeply saddened by the passing of George Baldock.

"The immediate reactions to George’s death, at such a tragically young age, reflect how loved and respected he was by teammates, fans and so many across the game.

"Our thoughts are with George’s family and his many friends, within football and beyond."

Meanwhile, the Greek Super League - where Baldock had played his football since signing for Panathinaikos last summer - said: "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.”