The footballing world will pay their respects to Sheffield United legend George Baldock on Thursday night when England host Greece at Wembley Stadium. To mark the tragic news of Baldock’s passing, England and Greece will wear black armbands. There will also be a minute’s silence before kick-off to remember Baldock
Baldock, 31, spent seven years at Sheffield United Football Club, making some unbelievable memories for both his family and friends, and the Blades supporters, who loved him like he was one of their own.
Throughout his time at Bramall Lane, Baldock won two promotions to the Premier League, and he played a huge part in United’s ninth place finish in the 2019/20 top flight campaign.
The endearing right-back wasn’t just a great footballer, he was a great man as well. For example, when Sander Berge joined the club in 2020, Baldock went out of his way to help Berge with accommodation and helping him to acclimatise to a new country at a young age.
His former Blades teammate wrote on Instagram: “Absolutely devastated and heartbroken. You were much more than a teammate to me. From our first meeting, you took care of me like a big brother. I could always count on you. In good times and bad, you have always been there for me. With your family, I always felt at home. You are the funniest person I have ever met and we could laugh for days together. On and off the field, it was always pleasant with you. All the memories I had with you will stay with me forever. Sending all my love to your family. I love you GB. RIP.”
Before signing for United, Baldock spent eight years at MK Dons, he played alongside Dele Alli, who has paid tribute to the 31-year-old. Sharing a post made by Baldock in August 2020 of the two players, on what appears to be a holiday together, Alli wrote: “I love you! Rest in peace, my brother.”
From one former England star to a current one, Jack Grealish, who came up against Baldock last season wrote: “RIP George! A great player but more importantly a great guy! Sending all my love to your family and close ones.”
England women’s star, Alex Greenwood, who is the partner of another Blades legend, Jack O’Connell, who played alongside Baldock, said this on social media: “George, we are going to miss you so much. The random FaceTime calls, the endless laughs you gave us. An unbelievable person gone too soon.”
Former United defender Auston Trusty, who got to know Baldock last season, wrote this in tribute to him: “Can’t believe I’m writing this. You will truly be missed. Loved every second getting to know you this past year. It was an honour to share the pitch with you. Praying for your family. Rest in peace brother.”
