George Baldock's family releases statement after footballer's sudden death aged 31

George Baldock was found dead at his villa in Greece on Wednesday night and his family have now released a statement after the 31-year-old was discovered in his pool

George Baldock's family have released a heartbreaking statement as they deal with his sudden passing at the age of 31.

The Panathinaikos defender was found dead in the pool of his villa on Wednesday. His wife raised suspicions when Baldock hadn't been in contact for several hours and emergency services were sent round. A doctor then confirmed he had died.

Baldock only moved to the Greek capital to join Panathinaikos in the summer following seven years at Sheffield United, where he gained two promotions. He was also capped by Greece, who will face England at a sold out Wembley on Thursday evening.

His family have said: "We can confirm that George has sadly passed away. As a family we are in shock at this terrible loss. We ask please that the media respect our privacy at this time."

His club, Panathinaikos, whom he last played for on October 6 against Olympiacos, has paid tribute to their player. They said: “We are shocked, we are shocked by the loss of our George. The family of Panathinaikos mourns his untimely death. We stand with the family and loved ones of George Baldock.”

Sheffield United also released a statement which read: "Sheffield UnitedFootballClub 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."

Baldock begun his career at MK Dons and would make 125 appearances for the club. Whilst there, especially as a young player, he enjoyed several loan spells away at the likes of Northampton, Oxford, non-league side Tamworth and Icelandic outfit IBV.

Northampton have paid tribute to the player in a statement: "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former loanee George Baldock at the tragically young age of 31. George made 5 appearances in 2011 on loan from MK Dons before playing for Oxford and Sheff Utd. Sending our sincerest condolences to George’s family and friends."

Several players have also come out and recognised Baldock's untimely passing. Harry Maguire, who was also once on the books of Sheffield United, was among the first major names to pay his respects on social media.

Shortly after Kyle Walker-Peters, whom Baldock was friendly with away from the pitch, previously holidaying together, also made his feelings known as he remembered the 31-year-old.