Former Sheffield United defender George Baldock has died at the age of 31.
The England-born Greece international was found dead in the swimming pool of his house in Glyfada, southern Athens.
Initial coroner’s findings suggest he drowned and police sources say there are no indications of foul play. His body was found at 22:30 local time on Wednesday.
Police attempted to resuscitate Baldock at the scene but he could not be revived and medical emergency units confirmed his death, Reuters news agency reported, citing a police official.
Baldock had joined Greek side Panathinaikos in the summer after seven years at the Blades.
“We can confirm that George has sadly passed away,” a family statement said. “As a family we are in shock at this terrible loss.”
Panathinaikos said in a statement: “We are shocked, 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.”
Sheffield United also expressed their shock at the news, saying: “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.”
Baldock had made four appearances for Panathinaikos and started in their goalless draw with Olympiakos on Sunday.
He was capped 12 times by Greece, who he qualified for through his grandmother. Greece play England in the Nations League on Thursday, although Baldock had not been selected for the game.
The Greece national team said in a statement: “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.”
Baldock started his career at MK Dons in 2009 and played more than 100 times for them.
He had loan spells with several clubs including Northampton and Oxford United, before joining Sheffield United in 2017.
He made 219 appearances in all competitions for the club, helping them to promotion to the Premier League in 2019 and again in 2023.
Baldock was born in Buckingham but opted to represent Greece in May 2022, when he was called up for the national team for the first time by manager Gus Poyet.
He made his debut for the country the following month in a 1-0 win over Northern Ireland at Windsor Park in Belfast.
Source: BBC