Former Sheffield United defender George Baldock dies aged 31 as clubs pay tribute

Former Sheffield United and Panathinaikos defender George Baldock has died at the age of 31

The football world is in mourning after the sudden death of former Sheffield United defender George Baldock at the age of 31. The Greece international, who joined Panathinaikos this summer following a seven-year stay at Bramall Lane, was not selected for Greece's upcoming match against England but played in their goalless draw with Olympiacos last Sunday.

A statement released to PA news agency by Baldock's family said: "We can confirm that George has sadly passed away. As a family we are in shock at this terrible loss. We ask please that the media respect our privacy at this time."

Sheffield United expressed their deep sorrow, describing George Baldock as an "extremely popular" figure among fans, staff, and fellow players during his time at the club. In an official statement, the Blades said: "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."

The Greek national team also paid their respects through a statement which read: "With profound sadness and sorrow, the National Team and the Greek Football Federation bid farewell to George Baldock. There are no words to describe the human pain caused by the news of the unexpected loss of one of our own, young, man. The moment forces silence. Condolences to his family. Condolences from his second family."

Current club Panathinaikos also paid tribute, saying: "We are shocked by the loss of our George. The family of Panathinaikos mourns his untimely death. We stand with the family and loved ones of George Baldock."

An emotional tribute emerged from England international and former Sheffield United colleague Harry Maguire, who posted "RIP" alongside a heartbreak emoji and a picture of Baldock on Instagram. Dean Henderson, an ex-teammate, also shared heartfelt words saying "RIP Blades legend" and shared a photograph of him with Baldock.

The Football Association also joined the chorus of mourning. "We are devastated to learn of the passing of George Baldock at the age of 31. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with George’s family, friends and team-mates at club and country," read the FA's message.

Born in Buckinghamshire, Baldock launched his football journey at MK Dons, making significant impact with over 100 appearances. His career there was peppered with loans, including two tenures at Oxford, paving the way to his eventual signing with Sheffield United in 2017.

He became a pivotal player under Chris Wilder and driving the Blades towards Premier League promotion, and would go on to play 219 games for the Blades before moving to Panathinaikos last summer.

Baldock's brother Sam works on the coaching staff at Brighton, who released a statement this morning which read: "We are shocked to learn of the passing of George Baldock at the age of 31. Our love and condolences are with George’s brother and our colleague Sam, and his family and friends at this time."

MK Dons echoed those words, saying: "We are deeply devastated and saddened to learn about the shocking news of former academy graduate and MK Dons player, George Baldock."Everyone affiliated with MK Dons shares a great love for George, Sam and the Baldock family, and we would like to share our sincerest condolences during these awful times. You will always be one of our own, George."