Former Man United star Facundo Pellistri pays heartfelt tribute to teammate George Baldock

Tributes have poured in from across the globe after former Sheffield United defender George Baldock passed away on Wednesday after drowning in his Athens swimming pool

Former Manchester United winger Facundo Pellistri has paid a heartfelt tribute to Panathinaikos teammate George Baldock following the defender's sad passing on Wednesday.

The 31-year-old ex-Sheffield United right-back died at his home in Athens after drowning in his swimming pool. Greek police said there was no evidence that criminal activity caused the death of the Greece international.

Baldock's death has sent shockwaves across the footballing world, for none more so than his current and former colleagues at club and international level. Pellistri, who, like Baldock, signed for Panathinaikos in the summer, is among those that is "devastated" after finding out that his teammate and friend has died.

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Speaking in an Instagram post with a photo of Baldock, Pellistri said in a caption: "We are all truly devastated and in absolute shock. Our George, our teammate our friend was and still remains family.

"When a member is suddenly taken away from us, a part is missing and will always be missed. In times like these, words lose their meaning. Nothing can be said to describe our grief and pain for the loss of our brother. Farewell our beloved George. You will always, always remain in our hearts," followed with a flying wings emoji.

Baldock's fiancé Annabel Dignam, with whom Baldock had son Brody, also posted a message on Instagram and revealed he was meant to fly home this week to celebrate his 32nd birthday.

"George, the love of my life, my soulmate," Dignam wrote. "The perfect Dad to our beautiful boy. You completed me. You were my world and I know we were yours.

"You are here with me in Brody’s smile, giggle and infectious personality. My world will never be the same but I will find a way for Brody. I promise. I love you forever and always G. Your Neen. X."

Baldock’s family released a statement which read: "We are heartbroken with the sudden passing of our beloved George. We can confirm that a post-mortem examination has found that George tragically drowned whilst swimming in the pool at his home in Glyfada, Athens.

"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. You were due to fly home today for us to celebrate his first birthday together, but instead we mourn your loss.

"As a family it has been incredibly touching, but equally so very difficult to read the huge number of tributes written by those that knew George and from those whose life he touched. It was impossible not to love him. We ask that you please continue to respect our privacy at this devastating time as we begin to process our grief."