Chelsea and Panathinaikos pay heartfelt tributes to George Baldock after statement released

Both Chelsea and Panathinaikos have paid their respects to former Sheffield United defender George Baldock before tonight's Conference League clash in Athens.

Baldock was found dead on October 9 during the international break. He was discovered in his swimming pool at his apartment in the Greek capital.

The defender, who represented as well as MK Dons and Oxford United during his career, made the switch to Greece in the summer to join Panathinaikos. His funeral will take place in the UK on Wednesday, October 30 with the Panathinaikos team expected to fly out for the ceremony.

Thursday night is the first time that Panathinaikos have played in front of their home fans since Baldock's passing and both the Greek club and have chosen to mark the occasion by paying tribute to the defender. Taking to X before the game, the Blues shared a picture of their squad with a 'Baldock 32' jersey, with a caption which read: "For George.

"Our thoughts go out to George Baldock's family, and everyone at Panathinaikos FC, following the sad passing of the defender recently." Prior to kick off, the home supporters held up cards with the number 32, Baldock's adopted number at the Greek club, as a way of paying their own respects.

Following his death, Baldock's family released this statement: "We are heartbroken with the sudden passing of our beloved George. George, you were the most special father, fiance, son, brother, uncle, friend, teammate and person.

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"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."