Auston Trusty leads George Baldock tributes as Celtic star in shock over former Sheffield Utd team-mate's death

Trusty played with Baldock at Bramall Lane last season and has been left devastated by the 31-year-old's sudden passing

Auston Trusty has shared a heartbreaking tribute to his former Sheffield Utd teammate George Baldock.

The 31-year-old was tragically found dead in his swimming pool in Athens on Wednesday. Baldock had made to the move to Greek giants Panathinaikos in the summer, leaving Bramall Lane after seven years in the Steel City. Trusty also departed, joining Celtic for £5million after spending just one season at the Yorkshire outfit. But he and Baldock formed a close bond in the year they spent together and the US international shared a moving tribute on Instagram.

"Heartbreaking. Can't believe I'm writing this. you will be truly missed. Loved every second of getting to know you this past year. It was an honour to share the pitch with you. Praying for your family. Rest in peace brother."

Scotland international and Las Palmas striker Oli McBurnie shared a series of photos with Baldock, both on and off the pitch, as he marked his passing on Instagram as well. McBurnie spent five years playing alongside Baldock – previously a transfer target of Celtic – at Bramall Lane. Ex-Rangers and Motherwell wideman Jamie Murphy is also an ex-teammate of Baldock, who shared a pic captioned RIP.

Former Hibs and Blades boss Paul Heckingbottom paid tribute as well. He posted: "Numbing to hear of George Baldock’s passing, a man with so much still ahead of him in life as a husband, father, brother and son. George was super person and fantastic professional who was admired and adored by all who worked with him. My prayers are with his loved ones right now. George, it was a privilege to have known you."

Baldock's family have released a statement following his death. It reads: "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."

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