The Greek Football Federation have confirmed that they have requested UEFA to allow their players to wear black armbands in their upcoming Nations League games with England and the Republic of Ireland, following the sudden passing of George Baldock.
The 31-year-old’s body was found on Wednesday in a swimming pool at his home in Glyfada, southern Athens, but the cause of death remains unknown. Baldock
signed for Panathinaikos in the summer after seven years at Sheffield United, where he made 219 appearances in all competitions for The Blades.
The defender, who played in Sunday’s 0-0 draw with Olympiakos in Greece’s Super League, was born in Buckingham but represented Greece at international level. Eligible through his grandmother, he won 12 caps for Greece but was not included in the squad for October’s internationals.
Greece have now requested for black armbands to be worn against England on Thursday, in memory of the full-back.
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.”
Former club Sheffield United also paid tribute to the ‘popular’ Baldock upon the news.
“Sheffield United Football Club is shocked and extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player, George Baldock,” a club statement read.
“The defender left the club in the summer after seven years at Bramall Lane and was extremely popular with supporters, staff and teammates 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.”
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