ANKARA

Panathinaikos and Greece defender George Baldock died at the age of 31, the Greek football club confirmed on Thursday.

"... The family of Panathinaikos mourns his untimely death. We stand with the family and loved ones of George Baldock," the club said in a statement, adding that the Athens club is in shock.

One of his former clubs, Sheffield United, also offered condolences. "Sheffield United Football Club is shocked and extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player, George Baldock. The sincere condolences of everyone associated with Sheffield United are extended to George’s family and friends," the English club said on X.

European football's governing body UEFA said it was "deeply saddened" by the passing of Baldock.

Baldock joined Panathinaikos in July after a seven-year stint at Sheffield United.

He scored six goals in 219 appearances for Sheffield United and helped his former club reach the top-tier English Premier League in 2019 and 2023.

Born in England's Buckingham, Baldock, who also had Greek citizenship, was found dead in the swimming pool of his house in Glyfada, southern Athens, Greek public broadcaster ERT said.

Baldock had 12 international caps for Greece, and had also played for English lower division clubs Milton Keynes Dons and Oxford United.