PA Media/dpa
London
Greek police say there is no evidence that criminal activity caused the death of former Sheffield United defender George Baldock.
The death of the 31-year-old Greece international, who signed for Athens club Panathinaikos in the summer, was confirmed in a family statement issued on Wednesday.
A statement from Greece’s Ministry of Citizen Protection released on Thursday read: "A preliminary investigation has been carried out by the Attica Security Directorate.
"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 to determine if there are any traces of a burglary, with a negative result.
"Also, a specialized team of the Criminal Investigation Directorate of the Police carried out a check at the house in order to exclude the possibility of criminal activity.” The Football Association confirmed there would be a period of silence before Thursday night’s Nations League match between England and Greece at Wembley, and that players of both sides would wear black armbands.
The FA confirmed tributes would also be paid pre-match to Kick It Out founder Lord Herman Ouseley, who died last week aged 79.
European ruling body UEFA said there would also be a minute’s silence before Greece’s match at home to the Republic of Ireland on Sunday.
Baldock’s family said in a statement they were "in shock at this terrible loss” and called for 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 passing of former player, George Baldock,” a club statement posted on social media read.
"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.” Baldock was first called up to play for Greece in 2022 when Gus Poyet coached them, after being 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 own, young, man.”