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

George Baldock's fiancée Annabel Dignam has shared an emotional message just hours after the former Premier League star's death was confirmed

George Baldock's fiancée has shared a heartfelt tribute to her 'soulmate' in an emotional message after his death was confirmed.

The Greek international, who was discovered at his home in Athens after drowning in his swimming pool, leaves behind his son Brody and fiancée Annabel Dignam. In the wake of the tragedy, Dignam took to her private Instagram to express her grief, posting a photo of the couple with the caption: "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."

Baldock's family released their own statement prior to Dignam's post, highlighting his role as a cherished family member and athlete. "You were the most special father, fiancée, son, brother, uncle, friend, teammate and person," the statement read.

"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. We will forever cherish the special memories we have of you and you will continue to live on in your beautiful son.

READ MORE: I'm being targeted for international success - and it has led to unwanted Chelsea ban

READ MORE: Bukayo Saka injury latest and Arsenal return date wait after worrying England blow

"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. It was Annabel who first raised the alarm after not hearing from George. She was unable to get hold of him and asked the owner of the house in Glyfada, Greece, to check for him."

The Greek international joined Athens 'Panathinaikos' from Sheffield United, having qualified for their national team via his grandmother. Tragically however, he was found in his pool by his landlord, who hopped over the fence to gain access to the property.

Baldock was wearing swimming trunks and was pulled out of the water by the emergency services. Despite efforts to save his life, he sadly could not be revived.

Forensic scientists who conducted the autopsy on Baldock at Athens' University Hospital on Thursday this week said he was dead for five hours before he was discovered. Initial autopsy results confirmed the likely cause of death was due to "microscopically foamy microbubbles" that had formed on the footballer - an indication of drowning.

Police have indicated that it could take "several weeks, if not months," to obtain full autopsy and toxicology results. Reports emerged of a half-empty bottle of vodka and two glasses found by the pool, prompting speculation about whether another person was with him at the time. Despite these details, authorities have now dismissed any suspicion of foul play in his passing.

Tributes have poured in for Baldock, including from Pavlos, Crown Prince of Greece. The prince, who is the second child and eldest son of the former King Constantine II and Queen Anne-Marie, shared a message on Instagram, posting a photo of the footballer with the caption 'RIP George Baldock'.

The Blades also expressed their deep sorrow over Baldock's death. On X, they posted: "Sheffield United Football Club is shocked and extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player, George Baldock. The defender, who left the club last summer after a seven-year stint, was a favourite among fans, colleagues, and fellow players. Sheffield United extends its deepest sympathies to George's family and friends at this difficult time."