Sheffield Wednesday fan ‘mocks death of George Baldock’ as police probe sick pic
Police are investigating a photo that has emerged of a Sheffield Wednesday fan appearing to mock the death of ex-Sheffield United star George Baldock as the two sides met earlier today (November 10)
A Sheffield Wednesday fan has been seen appearing to sickeningly mock the death of ex-Premier League star George Baldock.
Photos emerged of a man holding a phone for rival Sheffield United fans to see, with the words “Where’s Baldock?” written in large letters across the screen. United played Wednesday in the Steel City derby earlier today (November 10) for the first time since Baldock died back in October while in Greece.
The derby match between the two sides is known as one of the UK’s fiercest footballing contests, with a string of fan-on-fan incidents recorded over recent years. Now police are launching a probe into the sick photo which shows the ‘Where’s Baldock?’ phone screen alongside another fan appearing to make an offensive gesture.
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Sheffield Wednesday themselves put out a statement on the incident after the match condemning the "appalling behaviour".
The statement read: "The club are aware of an image circulating on social media and roundly condemn this abhorrent act.
"We are working together with South Yorkshire Police on an immediate investigation and make it absolutely clear that there is no place in football or society for such appalling behaviour."
Chloe Bannan, wife of Wednesday captain Barry Bannan, lashed out on social media, writing: “That is absolutely abhorrent, and they're nothing to do with Wednesday.”
George Baldock was a Sheffield United legend and moved to Athens to play his football with Panathinaikos this summer. With Greek roots, the defender has 12 caps for Greece.
His death last month shocked the footballing world, with scores of players - former and present - taking to social media to express their condolences.
England star Dele Alli played alongside Baldock in MK-Dons’ youth set up and wrote a heartfelt statement on Instagram.
"May your spirit, ambition, determination and humility live on through those who had the honour of knowing you!” wrote Alli, adding: "I love you brother and will miss you forever! My thoughts, prayers and heart goes out to your family! Rest in peace Balders."
South Yorkshire Police have been contacted for comment.
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