Former Sheffield United defender George Baldock drowned while swimming in a pool at his home in Athens, his family have confirmed in a statement.
The 31-year-old was found dead on Wednesday night with his heartbroken fiancé revealing he had been scheduled to return to the UK this week to celebrate his son’s first birthday this week.
‘We are heartbroken with the sudden passing of our beloved George. We can confirm that a post-mortem examination has found that George tragically drowned whilst swimming in the pool at his home in Glyfada, Athens,’ a statement from Baldock’s family read.
‘George, you were the most special father, fiance, son, brother, uncle, friend, teammate 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. 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.’
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