George Baldock's heartbroken fiancée pays tribute to 'love of my life' after death

The former Sheffield United star was tragically found dead at the age of 31 having drowned in his swimming pool

The fiancée of George Baldock has paid an emotional tribute to her "soulmate" after the former Premier League player was found dead at his home in Athens.

The former Sheffield United star's death was confirmed earlier this week after drowning in his swimming pool, with the 31-year-old leaving behind his fiancée Annabel Dignam and son Brody.

Just hours after his tragic death was confirmed, Annabel shared a heartbreaking tribute to the Baldock as she described the Greece international as "the love of my life" and "my world".

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Posting a photograph of the couple smiling on Instagram, she wrote: "George, the love of my life, my soulmate. The perfect dad to our beautiful boy."

"You completed me. You were my world and I know we were yours. You are here with me in Brody's smile, giggle and infectious personality. My world will never be the same but I will find a way for Brody. I promise."

Annabel's emotional post followed a statement from Baldock's family, who had earlier paid tribute to "the most special father, fiancée, son, brother, uncle, friend, teammate 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," the statement continued. "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."

Tributes have poured in for George, including from Pavlos, Crown Prince of Greece. The prince, who is the second child and eldest son of the last king of Greece, Constantine II, and Queen Anne-Marie, shared a heartfelt message on his Instagram story alongside a photo of the footballer, stating 'RIP George Baldock'.

A statement from Sheffield United also said the club were "shocked and extremely saddened" to hear of the death of the defender, who left Bramall Lane this summer to join Panathinkaikos. He had moved to Greece having already qualified for the national side through his grandmother.

In a post on the Blades' X account, the statement read: "Sheffield United Football Club is shocked and extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player, George Baldock. The defender, who departed the club in the summer after a seven-year stint at Bramall Lane, was dearly loved by fans, staff, and fellow players. The club extends its most sincere condolences to George's family and friends during this difficult time."