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

Baldock, who joined Panathinaikos in the summer, was found dead at his home in the south of Athens on Wednesday, Reuters news agency reported, citing a police official. He was 31. Sheffield United, his former club, have posted a lengthy tribute to their former star.

The Blades wrote on X: “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.”

According to various reports, Baldock was found in the swimming pool of his Greek villa. His wife had been unable to contact him and alerted the owner of the villa. They found Baldock and subsequently informed the authorities. Police tried to resuscitate him but it was confirmed that he had died. A cause of death has not been publicised.

Manchester United defender Harry Maguire posted a tribute on Instagram, having played with Baldock for Sheffield United, simply posting “RIP” with a broken-heart emoji.

Meanwhile, a statement from the Greece national team 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.”

The England national team and two more of Baldock’s former clubs, MK Dons and Northampton Town, also responded to the devastating news.

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