A FORMER Premier League star drowned in his pool in Greece on the day before he was due to fly back to the UK for his son's birthday, an inquest heard.
George Baldock was discovered at his home in Athens in October where he had been living after signing for Panathinaikos.
A coroner today ruled the death of the 31-year-old, who had previously played for MK Dons and Sheffield United, was an accident.
The inquest in Buckinghamshire was told no evidence of criminal activity was found by Greek police.
A post mortem also found no drugs or alcohol in his system, with his cause of death given as drowning.
It also showed Baldock had a very large heart "that would have meant that he was susceptible to heart arrythmias" - meaning his heart beat too fast or slow.
The court heard the defender had played a club fixture just three days before the horror.
Baldock had also tragically been due to fly home to the UK the following day to celebrate his son's first birthday.
Previous reports said his worried partner had raised the alarm after she struggled to track him down.
The owner of the house in the Glyfada area of Athens then discovered Baldock in the pool.
Attempts were made to resuscitate the footballer but tragically he couldn't be saved.
His family said: "George, you were the most special father, fiance, son, brother, uncle, friend, team-mate and person.
"Your enthusiasm and infectious personality brought so much love to those that were fortunate enough to know you and those that adored you from the stands.
"We will forever cherish the special memories we have of you and you will continue to live on in your beautiful son."
Although he was born in England, Baldock played for Greece 12 times through his nan's heritage.
After graduating from MK Dons' youth academy, he had stints at Oxford United, Tamworth and Northampton Town.
Baldock moved to Sheffield United in 2017 and made more than 219 appearances for the club.
He earned the nickname Furious George due to his aggressive all-action style.
The footballer left the club in 2024 to sign for Panathinaikos, where he made four appearances before his tragic death.
Tributes flooded in for Baldock following the horror, including from Manchester United star Harry Maguire, who graduated through the Blades' youth team before leaving in 2014.
He posted a picture of Baldock on his Instagram page with a broken heart emoji.
Panathinaikos said in a statement: "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."
While Sheffield United said: "Sheffield United Football Club 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.
"The sincere condolences of everyone associated with Sheffield United are extended to George's family and friends."
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