(CNN) – George Baldock, a British-born footballer who played for Panathinaikos and the Greek national football team, has died at the age of 31, the Greek Ministry of Citizen Protection confirmed to CNN.
Baldock’s body was found in the swimming pool of his home in the southern Athens suburb of Glyfada, Reuters reported, citing police sources.
“The preliminary investigation is being carried out by the Attica Security Directorate,” Greece’s Ministry of Citizen Protection told CNN Sport.
“A forensic expert was called to the scene and examined the body, finding no signs of criminal activity. Police searched the house and ruled out a break-in.
“In addition, a specialized team from the Police Forensic Investigations Unit conducted an inspection of the home to rule out the possibility of criminal activity,” the statement said.
Athens football club Panathinaikos, who signed Baldock to a three-year contract earlier this year, paid tribute to the player, writing in a statement: “We are shocked, we are dismayed at the loss of our George. Panathinaikos’ family mourns his sudden death.
“Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of George Baldock.”
Baldock represented Greece 12 times during his career. In a statement on Facebook, the Greek national team announced the defender’s death “with deep sympathy and pain.”
“There are no words to describe the human pain caused by the news of the untimely loss of one of us. The moment calls for silence. Condolences to his family. Condolences from the second family. Goodbye…” the message added.
Baldock began his career with MK Dons and went on to play for Oxford United and Northampton Town, among other clubs, before moving to Sheffield United in the Premier League.
“Sheffield United Football Club is shocked and very saddened to learn of the death of former player George Baldock,” the club said in a statement.
“The defender left the club in the summer after seven years at Bramall Lane and was hugely popular with fans, staff and teammates who wore the red and white shirt with him.
“The sincere condolences of everyone associated with Sheffield United go out to George’s family and friends.”