The family of ‘adored’ former Oxford defender George Baldock have paid tributes to him following his death this week.
Baldock ‘tragically drowned’ while swimming in the pool at his home in Glyfada, Athens, his family have confirmed follow a post-mortem examination.
Greek police have confirmed there was no evidence that criminal activity caused the death of the 31-year-old Greece international, who signed for Athens club Panathinaikos in the summer.
“We are heartbroken with the sudden passing of our beloved George,” a statement from Baldock’s family read.
“George, you were the most special father, fiance, son, brother, uncle, friend, team-mate 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.
READ MORE: George Baldock: Tributes paid to former Oxford United player
“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.”
A tribute to George Baldock on the big screen ahead of the UEFA Nations League Group B2 match at Wembley Stadium, London (Image: Adam Davy/PA) Buckinghamshire-born Baldock started his career at MK Dons, with two stints at Oxford, before he signed for Sheffield United in 2017.
Oxford United and The Blades paid tribute to Baldock on social media on Wednesday (October 9).
Baldock – who left the Blades in the summer to join Panathinaikos – won 12 caps for Greece, after being eligible to represent them through his grandmother.
Greece players hold up a shirt in memory of George Baldock as they celebrate victory after the UEFA Nations League Group B2 match at Wembley Stadium, London (Image: Bradley Collyer/PA) He was last involved in their squad for the Euro 2024 play-off defeat to Georgia.
There was a period of silence before Thursday (October 10) night’s Nations League match between England and Greece at Wembley, which the visitors won 2-1, with Baldock’s picture shown on the big screens.
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Players of both sides also wore black armbands and the Greece team held up his shirt after they scored their opening goal in the shock Wembley win.
Greece manager Ivan Jovanovic said Baldock left his mark on the squad.
“The whole team and everyone has gone through a very difficult 24 hours,” he said. “He was with us in the dressing room, it is something that shouldn’t happen.
“In such moments football isn’t important.
“He left his mark with us with the way the players played with him on the pitch today.”
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