Greek police believe there is no evidence of criminal activity in the death of George Baldock

The death of the 31-year-old Greece international, who signed with Athens club Panathinaikos in the summer, was confirmed in a family statement on Wednesday.

A statement from the Greek Ministry of Citizen Protection released on Thursday said: “The Attica Security Directorate has carried out a preliminary investigation.

“A forensic pathologist was called to the scene and examined the body, with no evidence of criminal activity.

“In addition, the police searched the house for signs of a break-in, with negative results.

“A special team from the Criminal Investigation Department also carried out a check in the house to rule out the possibility of a crime.”

The Football Association confirmed there would be a period of rest ahead of Thursday night’s Nations League game between England and Greece at Wembley Stadium and that players from both teams would wear black armbands.

The FA confirmed that tributes would also be paid before the game to Kick It Out founder Lord Herman Ouseley, who died last week aged 79.

UEFA said there would also be a minute’s silence before Greece’s home game against the Republic of Ireland on Sunday.

Baldock’s family said in a statement they were “shocked by this terrible loss” and asked the media to respect their privacy.

The Blades paid tribute to Baldock, who spent seven seasons at Bramall Lane, including three in the Premier League.

“Sheffield United Football Club is shocked and extremely saddened to learn of the death of former player George Baldock,” said a club statement posted on social media.

“The defender left the club in the summer after seven years at Bramall Lane and was extremely popular with fans, staff and team-mates who wore a red and white jersey alongside him. “The sincere condolences of everyone associated with Sheffield United go out to George’s family and friends.”

Baldock was called up for Greece for the first time in 2022 when Gus Poyet coached them, having become eligible to represent them through his grandmother.

A statement from the Greek national team said: “There are no words to describe the human pain caused by the news of the unexpected loss of one of our young men.” The moment forces silence. Condolences to his family. Condolences from his second family.”

Buckinghamshire-born Baldock began his career at MK Dons and went on to play more than 100 times for the club alongside his brother Sam, who is now a coach at Brighton Academy.

MK Dons said in a statement: “We are deeply devastated and saddened to learn of the shocking news from former academy graduate and MK Dons player George Baldock.”

“Everyone associated with MK Dons feels great love for George, Sam and the Baldock family and we would like to extend our sincerest condolences at this terrible time. You will always be one of us, George.”