THE football world is still reeling following the tragic passing of former Premier League player George Baldock.
The 31-year-old was found dead in his swimming pool in Athens, Greece, where he moved to in the summer to play for Panathinaikos.
Sam Baldock played for Reading towards the end of his career[/caption]Baldock played in England‘s top division for Sheffield United, making 83 appearances for the Blades across three seasons in the top flight.
Baldock’s family released a statement which read: “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.”
The Greek international had a wife, daughter and two brothers – Sam and James.
Sam Baldock, 35, is George’s older brother and is a former professional footballer.
Sam started his career as a youth player for Wimbledon before moving to MK Dons and then West Ham where he played for them in the Championship.
Baldock moved on to Bristol City and then Brighton, making over 80 league appearances for each side, including two in the Premier League for the Seagulls.
Sam then had spells with Reading and Derby County before finishing up his career with Oxford United in 2023.
He retired because of an injury and became the club’s business development analyst soon after.
Sam scored a total of 121 goals as a striker.
George’s other brolther James was also involved in sport but as a doctor.
James was a team doctor at Oxford United and before that worked for MK dons and the FA as the development squad doctor.