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      Man Utd legend’s son, 17, named on bench for Brentford clash as Ten Hag gives him big break

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      DARREN FLETCHER’S teenage son Jack has been named in Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United matchday squad for the first time.The midfielder, 17, is on the bench for today’s Old Trafford clash with Brentford.Jack Fletcher has been named on Man Utd’s first team bench for the first timeCredit: GettyDarren Fletcher played more than 300 times for the Red DevilsCredit: Getty – ContributorFletcher penned his first pro contract at United alongside his twin brother Tyler earlier this year.His dad Darren, 40, played 342 times for the Red Devils between 2003 and 2015.During his glittering United stint he won five Premier League titles, an FA Cup, League Cup and the Champions League.Jack is a highly-rated prospect and was signed from Manchester City last year alongside his brother.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe transfer was reportedly a record fee for the age group.Having immediately impressed at United, Jack was invited to train with Ten Hag’s first-team last season.Despite being just 17, he has been a regular for the Red Devils’ Under-23 side in the PL2 this term.He has also gained experience playing against senior professionals in the EFL Trophy, even scoring twice in a 3-2 win over Barnsley.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSTwins Jack and Tyler Fletcher joined Man Utd in 2023Credit: GettyFletcher could now be in contention to make his first team debut under Ten Hag.And he is not the only United youngster to have been named on the Dutchman’s bench for the match, with 18-year-old striker Ethan Wheatley also involved.Darren Bent claims Thomas Frank is ready to take over from Erik ten Hag at Man Utd Despite his dad having earned 80 Scotland caps, Jack represents England at youth level.He has so far played for the Three Lions up to the Under-17 age group.His brother Tyler, meanwhile, instead plays for Scotland’s youth sides.Since retiring, Fletcher has been involved at Man Utd in several different roles.He previously worked as technical director, but was replaced in the position by Jason Wilcox earlier this year.Fletcher now works as a first team coach under Ten Hag.Fletcher, 40, is now a first team coach at Man UtdCredit: Getty More

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      James Maddison hauled off at half-time of Tottenham vs West Ham as Postecoglou ‘decides enough is enough’

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      JAMES MADDISON was hooked off at half-time in a bold tactical switch by Ange Postecoglou.Tottenham were drawing 1-1 with West Ham after the opening 45 minutes when the Spurs boss made the surprising decision.James Maddison was hooked off at half-timeCredit: ReutersMaddison looked glum as he watched the second half from the benchAnge Postecoglou’s change worked wondersCredit: PATNT Sports claimed the move was tactical and commentator Ally McCoist said Maddison had a quiet first-half and the gaffer may have decided “enough is enough”.The substitution saw Dejan Kulusevski move higher up the pitch, with defensive midfielder Pape Sarr replacing the England star.Maddison created five chances before the break – three more than the entire West Ham team managed – and he completed more passes than any other player.He also got the assist for Kulusevski’s goal before he was taken off.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMaddison reappeared and looked glum with his hood up as he sat on the bench.But the sub proved to be a stroke of genius by Postecoglou as Spurs scored three in a second-half blitz.They netted them in a rampant seven-minute span to go 4-1 up, as the match would finish.Yves Bissoma put Tottenham ahead before Jean-Clair Todibo turned in an unfortunate own goal – although goalkeeper Alphonse Areola was later harshly credited with the blunder by the Premier League.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSon Heung-min, on his return from injury, then grabbed the fourth.Fans praised Postecoglou’s game-changing sub, with one saying: “Full credit to the gaffer. Sarr on for Maddison has worked wonders.”MADDISON’S LUXURY MANSIONAnother added: “A genius substitution.”On taking off Maddison, Postecoglou explained: “West Ham asked certain questions in midfield areas. I just thought Sarr’s running power would help.”As well as losing 4-1, West Ham now face the prospect of being without Mohammed Kudus for three matches.The Hammer winger was sent off against Tottenham after a wild brawl in Saturday’s London derby.Kudus was given his marching orders after pushing Micky van de Ven in the face following a tussle for the ball in midfield.The 24-year-old caught Richarlison with a flying arm during a wild melee, sending the Spurs striker to the floor.READ MORE SUN STORIESSarr also weighed in to try and calm proceedings and appeared to be caught in the face as Kudus lost his cool.He now faces a three-match ban after his yellow card was upgraded to a straight red following a VAR check. More

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      Former Chelsea chief’s son, 16, gets first England call-up but Tuchel faces battle with USA over international future

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      THE son of former Chelsea chief Michael Emenalo is the subject of a tug of war between England and the United States.Landon Emenalo, 16, has received a call-up to the Three Lions Under-17s team, despite having played for the USA youth setup in the past.Landon Emenalo has received a call-up to the England U17 teamCredit: GettyLandon is the son of former Chelsea chief Michael EmenaloCredit: Getty – ContributorThe teenager is currently on the books at Chelsea’s academy where he operates as a central midfielder.Landon was born in Arizona and has a US national mother that allows him the option of who to represent at international level.While dad Michael is a 14-cap Nigeria international from his playing days – meaning Landon can also represent the Super Eagles.Micheal Emenalo played for clubs such as Notts County and San Jose Clash during his career before hanging up his boots to venture into coaching and board-level roles.READ MORE ON CHELSEAThe 59-year-old worked as a scout and assistant manager for Chelsea between 2007 and 2011, before taking the role as Chelsea’s technical director for six years.During his time in SW6 he worked alongside managers such as Jose Mourinho and Carlo Ancelotti, while he was also part of the team that brought in players such as Kevin De Bruyne, N’Golo Kante and Eden Hazard.Since then he has held the same position at AS Monaco and is now the president of the league association for the Saudi Pro League.Landon, who was reportedly raised as a Chelsea fan, is highly thought of at Cobham.Most read in FootballAnd his abilities have clearly caught the eye of the USA and England national setups.England U17 boss Neil Ryan has selected Landon for the team’s upcoming Euro 2025 qualifiers later this month. How Chelsea can shock Liverpool in ultimate ‘game of chicken’ with high-risk ‘tension-ball’ tacticWhile the youngster represented the USA U17s this summer in a tournament in the Czech Republic.It’s too soon for either of Mauricio Pochettino or Thomas Tuchel – both ex-Chelsea bosses themselves – to be thinking of calling the rising star to the men’s teams, but Landon has already found himself caught in a battle for his services.Landon has made four U18 Premier League appearances this season, scoring once. More

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      What Liverpool boss Arne Slot said about facing Virgil van Dijk as a player as amazing picture emerges

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      ARNE SLOT has opened up on the remarkable story of the time he played against Virgil van Dijk back in 2013.Liverpool boss Slot incredibly lined up against his now-club captain during a Dutch league game some 11 years ago.Arne Slot has discussed what it was like to play against Virgil van DijkCredit: AlamyVan Dijk and Slot faced off in the Dutch Eredivisie back in 2013Slot, 46, has impressed massively since taking over at Anfield this summer, with the Reds top of the table having conceded just two league goals in seven games.No small part of his success is thanks to the imperious Van Dijk who has long been one of the best centre-halves in the Premier League – if not the world.But Slot once faced off against Van Dijk when the Netherlands international was rising through the ranks in his home country.The pair came face-to-face in 2013 during a match between Slot’s FC Zwolle and Van Dijk’s Groningen in the Eredivisie – a clash that ended with Groningen winning 1-0.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLDiscussing that day with Men in Blazers, Slot joked: “Virgil was lucky that I only came on 10 minutes before the end. That’s why he could keep a clean sheet.”Slot – who was a midfielder during his playing days – hung up his boots at the end of that season, while Van Dijk was just starting out his career and was only 22 at the time.Even with his wealth of experience under his belt, Slot couldn’t have predicted that a young Van Dijk would one day be one of the best centre-backs around.He added: “Everybody thought that Virgil was a very talented and good centre-back, but it was a bit strange that no top clubs came in for him.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”He had to go to Celtic first and then to the Premier League to become such a star player for Liverpool.”If you would have asked me back then ‘would you expect him to be the new centre-back at Liverpool?’, I probably would have said no.How Chelsea can shock Liverpool in ultimate ‘game of chicken’ with high-risk ‘tension-ball’ tactic”If you would have asked him ‘did you expect to play against your new manager?’, he would probably have said no as well”.Slot will be hoping his star defender is on top form when his side welcome Chelsea to Anfield on Sunday.The league leaders will need to be on top form to stop Enzo Maresca’s transformed Blues.Only Manchester City have scored more goals than Chelsea in the league this season with the Stamford Bridge outfit bouncing back from a lacklustre campaign last term.Van Dijk has been crucial to Liverpool’s defensive stability this seasonCredit: Getty More

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      Raphael Varane lands new job alongside football royalty just weeks after ex-Man Utd star’s retirement aged 31

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      RAPHAEL VARANE has landed a new job just three weeks after hanging up his boots.The 31-year-old officially retired from football, having sustained a severe knee injury on his debut for Como.Raphael Varane is now on the board at ComoCredit: GettyThe ex-Man Utd star hung up his boots after sustaining a serious knee injuryCredit: APBut Varane is staying with the Italian side and has been appointed as a board member, with a particular role in the running of the club’s youth teams.Como revealed in a statement: “Varane will bring his experience and leadership to this new role, marking the next chapter of his career off the pitch. “He will collaborate with Osian Roberts, Como’s head of development, and Juliette Bolon, head of the education program, to support the club’s youth development efforts. “His involvement will benefit not only the players but also the broader community through educational initiatives. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”By integrating academic, leadership, and vocational training into the youth programs, Varane aims to help young athletes prepare for life beyond football.”Como, who are embarking on their first season in Serie A since 1989, are managed by Cesc Fabregas and have Thierry Henry as a minor shareholder.Ex-Liverpool duo Pepe Reina and Alberto Moreno are in the squad.Varane signed for Como on a free transfer in the summer after his contract at Manchester United expired, having spent a total 219 days out injured while at Old Trafford.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe French centre-back signed off by lifting the FA Cup in his final Red Devils appearance.But just three months later, he managed just 20 minutes on his Como debut before hobbling off injured.Man Utd reveal first pics of redeveloped 100,000-capacity Old Trafford in ‘biggest regeneration scheme ever seen’He later revealed he has battled knee injuries throughout his career and it impacted his decision to call it a day.Varane won the World Cup with France in 2018 and four Champions Leagues with Real Madrid.Varane’s retirement statement”They say all good things must come to an end.”In my career I have taken on many challenges, rose to occasion after occasion, almost all of it was supposed to be impossible. Incredible emotions, special moments and memories that will last a lifetime. Reflecting on these moments, it is with immense pride and a feeling of fulfilment that I am announcing my retirement from the game that we all love.”I hold myself to the highest standard, I want to go out strong, not just holding on to the game. It takes a big dose of courage to listen to your heart and your instinct. “Desire and needs are two different things. I have fallen and risen a thousand times, and this time, it’s the moment to stop and hang my boots up with my final game winning a trophy at Wembley.”I have loved fighting for myself, my clubs, my country, my teammates and the supporters of every team I have played for. From Lens to Madrid to Manchester, and playing for our national team. I have defended every badge with everything I have, and loved every minute of the journey.”The game at the highest level is a thrilling experience. It tests every level of your body and your mind. The emotions we experience you cannot find anywhere else. As athletes, we are never satisfied, never accepting of success. It is our nature and what fuels us.”I have no regrets, I wouldn’t change a thing. I have won more than I could have even dreamed of, but beyond the accolades and trophies, I am proud that no matter what, I have stuck to my principles of being sincere and have tried to leave everywhere better than I found it. I hope I have made you all proud.”And so, a new life begins off the pitch. I will remain with Como. Just without using my boots and shin pads. Something I am looking forward to sharing more about soon.”And so, a new life begins off the pitch. I will remain with Como. Just without using my boots and shin pads. Something I am looking forward to sharing more about soon.”Thank you, football.”With love, Rapha.” More

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      I used to cry at the thought of playing football – now I’m a Premier League star known as the ‘Guernsey Grealish’

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      ALEX SCOTT is a Guernsey boy living the Premier League dream.Bournemouth’s 21-year-old midfielder has had a unique rise to the top, having not wanted to play football and being axed by Prem academies.Alex Scott stars in Bournemouth’s midfield and has featured in every game so far this seasonCredit: RexHe is capped four times by England Under-21sCredit: GettyPep Guardiola has compared Scott to Jack GrealishCredit: GettyNot long ago, Scott saw playing as a frustrating distraction from a limited social life that included nailing scooter tricks at a local skate park with his friends.And when football did get in the way, the youngster was often left in tears.Until, that is, he moved from non-league Guernsey to Bristol City in January 2020 aged 16 and the scooter was “put to one side”.Cherries boss Andoni Iraola will be pleased to hear that, especially after forking out £25million in August 2023.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut Scott’s scootering obsession came during a tough time in his early footballing career.He was let go by the Southampton and Bournemouth academies by the age of 14 and forced into an “embarrassing” return to his Channel Island birthplace.Scott admitted: “Once you get released, it’s like, where do you go from here?“It is embarrassing. Back home, I was the kid that was going to be pro.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“It’s tough to get back into academy football but I wasn’t playing well and I wasn’t enjoying it. I lost the love.“I never really had a life outside of football. From the age of eight to 14, I would be at school then flying over every weekend and playing games in the UK and then back to school.Is Man Utd star Harry Amass the next Luke Shaw?“When I got home I was more interested in other hobbies. I was big on scootering, at the skate park.“It was ahead of football for about a year, two years. Even when I was  playing for Bournemouth at 13, I never wanted to go.“There were times when my mum and dad would say, ‘Right, you can take your scooter’. I would go to the skate park and then play football on the Sunday.“I didn’t want to tell my dad I wanted to scooter instead of football. “He saw it as a missed opportunity because he knew the talent I had.“It was hard. The number of times I would just be in my room crying, knowing I’d got to fly over to play football.”But then Scott says something just “clicked” between the ages of 14 and 16.He added: “I had a few years playing football at home in Guernsey, getting my confidence back, spending time with my friends. I enjoyed growing up as a normal kid.“And then when I was 16, I got the chance to go back to England and it was a dead cert that I would try the career again. It’s been a whirlwind. I never expected any of this to happen.”Others would disagree, Guernsey manager Tony Vance saw the potential, making him the club’s youngest ever player in the Isthmian League as a 16-year-old.Bristol City then took a punt after watching Scott score a hat-trick in a trial match against their Under-17s and Ashton Gate boss Nigel Pearson handed the teenager his first Championship start in May 2021.Following a 3-0 FA Cup defeat by Manchester City in February 2023, Pep Guardiola labelled him an “unbelievable player” and the “Guernsey Grealish” nickname stuck — teeing up Scott’s Prem switch to Bournemouth just six months later.Since then, however Scott’s mentality has continued to be tested. He was sidelined with a knee injury for 12 weeks after signing and missed another seven weeks with an ligament strain.The England Under-21 international — who idolises Jude Bellingham —  admitted: “That second injury was the hardest time I have had in football.”Unsurprisingly, though, he has bounced back and come off the bench in all seven of Bournemouth’s Premier League games this term.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe said: “There are times when I’m not starting and it’s hard, keeping that confidence. But I like to watch clips of myself to remind myself what I can do.“I’m always going to be grounded and humble.” More

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      Romantic moment David Raya gets engaged to glamorous partner Tatiana just days before Arsenal’s clash with Bournemouth

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      ARSENAL shot-stopper David Raya has certainly found a keeper.The Spain international dropped the knee to propose to long-term partner Tatiana Trouboul on Wednesday.David Raya and his partner Tatiana Trouboul have got engagedCredit: X formerly Twitter / @DavidRaya_22 / Instagram / @d.raya1The pair sealed the moment with a kissCredit: X formerly Twitter / @DavidRaya_22 / Instagram / @d.raya1Raya dropped the knee in front of a candlelit dinnerCredit: X formerly Twitter / @DavidRaya_22 / Instagram / @d.raya1A photo on social media showed off the stunning engagement ringCredit: X formerly Twitter / @DavidRaya_22 / Instagram / @d.raya1The happy couple looked overjoyedCredit: X formerly Twitter / @DavidRaya_22 / Instagram / @d.raya1Raya and Tatiana have been together since 2021Credit: X formerly Twitter / @DavidRaya_22 / Instagram / @d.raya1Raya took to social media to share the romantic moment with his followers.The 29-year-old posted a carousel of photos to Instagram alongside the jubilant caption: “SHE SAID YES”.The intimate proposal took place by a candlelit dinner with a photographer capturing the moment Raya dropped to one knee and popped the question.The pair both appeared over the moon and shared a kiss after Tatiana had agreed to marry the football superstar.READ MORE ON ARSENALAnother picture showed off Tatiana’s impressive new engagement ring.The comments of the post were flooded with congratulatory messages, including well wishes from the official Arsenal account and Gunners teammate Oleksandr Zinchenko.Tatiana and Raya have been together since 2021, however they left it until June 2022 to go public with their relationship. Tatiana, 29, heralds from Barcelona but has since moved her life to London to be alongside Raya – having previously divided her time between the capital and Spain.Most read in FootballTatiana is always supporting RayaCredit: instagram/t.trouboulThe soon-to-be newlyweds are regularly jetting away on holidayCredit: Instagram @t.trouboulThe pair both herald from BarcelonaCredit: Instagram @t.trouboul @d.raya1The pair don’t have any children yet but are the owners of an adorable – now banned – XL Bully dog.Raya is said to have obtained an exemption certificate for pet Goku in the hope that the dog will help protect their North London mansion.Watch Micah Richards’ hilarious reaction after Arsenal hero David Raya reveals favourite CBS pundit in awkward interviewTatiana reportedly used to work in a nightclub before she met Raya and has since picked up multiple modelling gigs.The Spanish wag has also built an impressive social media presence over recent years too, now boasting 19,600 Instagram followers.Tatiana took to her Instagram to tell her fans that the incredible news of her engagement still hasn’t settled in.She wrote: “It’s been two days since the news and I still can’t believe it.”Her and Raya will be sharing a surname in the near future, but already share some impressive ink.The pair have got matching lightbulb tattoos on their arms.READ MORE SUN STORIESRaya will be hoping he can put a cherry on top of an amazing week with three points against Bournemouth in the Premier League this afternoon.The Gunners travel to the south coast to take on Andoni Iraola’s side in a bid to continue their strong start to the season.Tatiana reportedly used to work in a clubCredit: Instagram @t.trouboulNow she has built an incredible following on social mediaCredit: Instagram @t.trouboulRaya and Tatiana show off their matching lightbulb tattoosRaya will be hoping to seal a week to remember with three points against BournemouthCredit: Instagram @t.trouboul More

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      Inside tragic George Baldock’s final hours as he told team-mates ‘it’s s*** I’m not there’ for son Brody’s 1st birthday

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      GEORGE BALDOCK told team-mates he was devastated to miss his son’s 1st birthday just a day before he tragically passed away.The footballer was found dead at his home in Athens, Greece on October 9 after drowning in his pool.George Baldock was set to fly home for his son’s birthday the day after he passed awayCredit: GettyBaldock was found dead at his home on October 9Credit: PASheffield United fans have left tributes outside Bramall LaneCredit: GettyHis finacee Annabel raised the concern after not hearing from him on the night he diedCredit: Facebook/ Annabel DignamOn the day of the 31-year-old’s sad passing, Baldock reported to his club Panathinaikos’ training ground for treatment on a minor injury.His team-mate and close friend Hordur Magnusson was also there and remembers getting a warm embrace from him.After doing some light jogging, he joined players Erik Palmer-Brown and Alexander Jeremejeff in the sauna.The pair teased Baldock about being “father of the year” – an inside joke they shared – which had extra meaning that day as it was his son Brody’s first birthday.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLPalmer-Brown told The Athletic that his last memory of the ex-Sheffield United star was him admitting: “But it’s a bit s*** I’m not there.”Baldock then told his team-mates he was thrilled to be flying back to England the next day to visit his little boy and fiancee Annabel.Unfortunately, he never made it and died later that night.After his sauna, the right-back was dropped home by fellow defender Bart Schenkeveld, who was one of the last people to see him.Most read in FootballAnnabel soon became worried that night as she had unusually not heard from her husband-to-be just hours before he was set to come home.She reached out to his landlord and he visited the property – only to find Baldock dead in his pool.Greece star’s classy gesture to tragic footballer George Baldock caught on live TV after shock win over England Medics were called but they were unable to save him. News quickly spread and several Panathinaikos players went to Baldock’s house that night.Magnusson was there, explaining: “I went to try to help because I didn’t believe that George was dead.”But when I saw 20 police guys on motorbikes outside his house, and the ambulance as well, the club staff members and the investigative police going inside, then I realised: ‘F***. He’s gone.’”Palmer-Brown reveals he has been struggling to sleep, saying: “It was one of the darkest days of my life.”I don’t see myself just moving on and playing football happily ever again. I’ve never felt like this before.”Baldock’s death has also hit his former Sheffield United pals hard.Little Brody is going to grow up and never know what a top man his dad was.Oli McBurnieOli McBurnie said: “George loved his missus and his little boy so much. They’re the people in this that I really feel sorry for. “I know how hard it’s been for me and some of the other boys who love him, but little Brody is going to grow up and never know what a top man his dad was. “Me and the boys have said that it’s our duty to be part of his life and try to remind him at every opportunity how much of an amazing person his dad was.”Baldock’s death came on the eve of Greece’s 2-1 win over England.He played for the Greek national side as he was eligible via his grandparents and was only not in the squad because of his minor injury.READ MORE SUN STORIESPolice are investigating his death but have ruled out any criminal activity.Toxicology reports could take as long as 45 days to come back.Dominating Mbappe, Premier League Iron Man, promotion hero: A tribute to George BaldockBy Kostas Lianos, Digital Sports ReporterIT was back in 2019 when Greece legend Vasilis Torosidis – the heir to Euro 2004 hero Giourkas Seitaridis – retired from international duty after 101 caps.A giant void was left behind at right-back, many talented players tried to step up – and none of them could fill those big boots.But, soon enough, I started to hear whispers about a Premier League ace with Greek heritage who’s a starter week-in and week-out…That was none other than George Baldock, born in Buckingham on March 9, 1993, to English parents but qualified for Greece through his grandmother.And what a season he was having. The right-back starred for Sheffield United as they surprised the Prem in the 2019-20 campaign – their first in 12 years – by finishing in the top half of the table.Baldock was among their standout players as he registered a staggering 3,420 minutes played – the joint highest along with the likes of Declan Rice and Virgil van Dijk.The defender was keen to make the big step to the international stage with his grandmother’s homeland – and it didn’t take long until he shook hands with the Greek football federation (EPO) chiefs.However, a long and arduous paperwork slog stood in the way – with the then Sheffield United star claiming Covid-19 and Brexit slowed things down.Greece finally got the right-back they were begging for for years as Baldock made his debut on June 2, 2022 in a Nations League clash at Northern Ireland as a late substitute.It didn’t take long until the English-born ace owned the right flank at the back and impressive performances followed.Perhaps none compare to the Euro 2024 qualifier against France in June 2023 when Baldock did the unthinkable and kept Kylian Mbappe quiet for 104 MINUTES, despite being injured and playing through “unimaginable” pain.I still remember speaking to then-Greece manager Gus Poyet about his player’s stunning performance, and I will never forget the big smile the Chelsea legend had on his face.Poyet reminded me of a proud father as he took me through the injury hell the full-back endured before squaring up against perhaps the world’s best player for his country.A beaming Poyet told me: “Against the Republic of Ireland [three days beforehand] – and now that it is finished I can say it – after 20 minutes he had a very bad twist in his ankle, very bad. He was very close to come out. I asked him, ‘Can you hold until half-time?'”At half-time his ankle was very, very swollen. He asked for a strapping and he asked me for five minutes. Give me five minutes and we’ll let you know. And he had an unbelievable second half running up and down and being outstanding.”You don’t imagine the ankle after the game. You don’t imagine the ankle the day after, after the flight to France. Black and blue – swollen. And a day-and-a-half later you need to play against Mbappe.”Ninety per cent of people will think, no chance. And I keep talking to him, individually. And he keeps saying to me, ‘Coach I’m gonna be there no worries’.”And he didn’t play 20 minutes, he didn’t play 60 minutes, he played 104 minutes because the referee gave 14 minutes of injury time against Mbappe.”It’s easy to understand how loyal Baldock was to every team he ever played for during his 15-year career, just by looking at his stats.The Greek ace started his career at MK Dons in 2009 where he amassed a staggering 125 appearances throughout an eight-year stint that also saw him playing on loan for Northampton Town, Tamworth, IBV and Oxford United.The defender joined Sheffield United in 2017 and registered a whopping 219 appearances in seven years that also saw him helping his team achieve two Premier League promotions.Baldock’s work ethic and commitment was no different in Greece as he proudly stated two years ago: “To play for the national side is a great honour and a lot of pride involved for me and my family.”Representing my country through my late grandmother, it’s a very proud moment for me and my family. I love the country and I will fight for every success”Baldock never played for England at any level, but he always competed like a lion and he proved it on Sunday in his last ever match when he started for Panathinaikos, whom he joined in the summer, against eternal rivals Olympiacos in perhaps the most intense derby in Europe.He served his team with honour as he helped them pick up a valuable point in a goalless draw against their in-form foes, who had just played their best game of the season with a 3-0 win over Braga in the Europa League a few days earlier.He only managed 12 caps for Greece before his sudden and tragic death at the age of 31 on Wednesday in Athens.But his fighting spirit and charisma at right-back with the white and blue, as well as his remarkable run in the Premier League and the Championship, show that he is leaving a legacy behind for many Greek and English fans to look up to. More