A post-mortem examination has concluded that George Baldock drowned in a swimming pool at his home in Greece, according to reports in the country. Baldock, a former Premier League defender, was found dead at his property in Glyfada, southern Athens, at the age of 31.
According to Greek outlet Kathimerini, the cause of Baldock’s death was recorded as ‘drowning in water’ following a post-mortem examination. Samples were also taken for toxicology tests but it will take ‘several days’ for the results to be announced.
It is said that ‘microscopic foamy microbubbles’ were found during the examination, which is an indicator of drowning. Investigators reportedly believe Baldock was dead for up to five hours before he was discovered.
Baldock, who joined Panathinaikos in the summer after a seven-year spell at Sheffield United, was found unresponsive in his pool after his partner reportedly raised the alarm because he was not answering his phone.
The owner of the property discovered Baldock and immediately called the emergency services, who attempted to resuscitate him to no avail.
Local police have already confirmed there was no evidence of criminal activity relating to Baldock’s death, with a spokesperson telling the PA news agency: “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 specialised 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.”
Baldock was born in England but played for Greece at international level, qualifying through his grandmother. He made over 200 appearances for Sheffield United before joining Panathinaikos and previously represented MK Dons, Oxford United and Northampton Town.
It has been reported that Greece have asked for tonight’s Nations League match against England to be postponed in the wake of Baldock’s death. He would have been in the squad for the game at Wembley but was ruled out through injury.
After the news of his death was confirmed, the Greek FA said in a statement: “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, men. The moment forces silence. Condolences to his family. Condolences from his second family.”
