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    Fresh heartache for George Baldock’s family over late defender’s official cause of death

    THE family of football star George Baldock faced fresh heartache yesterday over his official cause of death.They were told it could be months before they know for sure what killed the Panathinaikos defender last month.Football ace George was found dead in his swimming pool at his villa in AthensCredit: ReutersSheffield United players paid tribute to their former starCredit: GettyThe 31-year-old former Sheffield United player was found dead in his swimming pool at his villa in Athens.A report detailing toxicology and histology results will be prepared but is unlikely to be ready until the new year.Dr Grigoris Leon, of the Hellenic Society of Forensic Medicine, said: “The release of official findings could take months.“There are only five people with the expertise to conduct microscopic tests in Greece.READ MORE ON GEORGE BALDOCK“The cause of his death is very likely to have been pathological and related to the heart.”Baldock, who signed for Panathinaikos in the summer, was repatriated to the UK and laid to rest a week ago.Mourners included former England midfielder Dele Ali.Baldock, known to fans as Furious George due to his all-action playing style, made over 200 appearances for the Blades.Most read in FootballHe also won 12 caps for Greece.England and Greece stars in emotional minute’s silence to pay tribute to George Baldock after tragic death at 31The family of football star George Baldock faced fresh heartache over his official cause of deathCredit: Getty More

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    Tragedy as footballer Marco Angulo, 22, dies of injuries from devastating car crash

    INTERNATIONAL footballer Marco Angulo has tragically died at the age of 22.Angulo was involved in a traffic incident in Ecuador’s capital of Quito on October 7, before he was rushed to hospital.Marco Angulo of LDU Quito has died 35 days after he was involved in a fatal car crashCredit: GettyThe car crash had occurred on the Rumiñahui highway in the southeast of Quito at 4.30am.While in hospital he underwent a “decompressive craniectomy” operation that extracted 300 cubic centimetres of blood to release pressure inside his head caused by the trauma suffered.Angulo had also suffered a lung contusion that required the placement of a chest tube, though no active bleeding was found.However, 35 days after the crash on November 11, Angulo was confirmed to have passed away from his injuries.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe was travelling in a Ford Explorer registered in his sister’s name with four other people when the crash happened.Angulo’s death means three people have been killed in the crash, including Independiente Juniors star Roberto Cabezas Simisterra and Víctor Charcopa Nazareno, the cousin of Cuniburo Fútbol Club player Diogo Nazareno.The car is reported to have crashed into a metal structure weighing 50 tons after failing to follow the road signs, with the impact moving the structure by 5 metres.Angulo starred for Ecuadorian club LDU Quito on loan from Major League Soccer side FC Cincinnati.Most read in FootballThe midfielder, who only made his professional debut in 2020, had been capped twice by the Ecuador national team.His latest appearance had come in a 2-1 win over Australia in March 2023.Paying tribute following his death, his club said in a statement: “With profound pain and sadness, we regret to inform the passing of our beloved player Marco Angulo.”His departure is an irreparable loss that will leave an indelible mark in our hearts.Club captain Ezequiel Piovi said on Instagram: “May you rest in peace.”The Ecuador international was on loan from MLS side FC CincinnatiCredit: Getty More

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    Sheffield Wednesday fan ‘mocks death of ex-Premier League star George Baldock with sick pic’ as cops launch probe

    A SHEFFIELD Wednesday fan has been spotted appearing to mock the tragic death of ex-Premier League star George Baldock.Pictures show a man holding a phone up to rival Sheffield United supporters with the sick question “Where’s Baldock?” plastered across the screen.A fan was seen holding a phone up to rival Sheffield United supporters with the question ‘Where’s Baldock?’ across the screenCredit: XGeorge Baldock, a Sheffield United legend, died back in October after drowning in GreeceCredit: GettyBaldock, a Sheffield United legend, died back in October after drowning in Greece – as cops launch a probe over the “abhorrent act”.United played Wednesday in the local Steel City derby for the first time since the defender’s death.The derby match is known as one of the UK’s fiercest footballing contests with a number of high profile incidents in recent years.An image of the man holding up his phone has been shared online by angry fellow supporters hitting out at his actions.read more in footballDressed in a black hoodie the Wednesday fan can be seen staring directly into the camera with his phone in his left hand.Across the black screen reads the words “Where’s Baldock?” in white text.Sheffield Wednesday have put out a statement regarding the incident condemning the “appalling behaviour” by their own fan.They said: “The club are aware of an image circulating on social media and roundly condemn this abhorrent act. Most read in Football”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.”Wife of Wednesday captain Barry Bannan also blasted the fan.Chloe Bannan said: “That is absolutely abhorrent, and they’re nothing to do with Wednesday.”George Baldock’s heartbreaking summer farewell message to Sheffield Utd fans re-emerges after star found dead aged 31The Sun has reached out to South Yorkshire police for comment.Sheffield United took home all three points in the game after winning 1-0 thanks to a goal from Tyrese Campbell.Just one season earlier, young Bradley Lowery – a loyal Sunderland fan who died of cancer – was also mocked by Sheffield Wednesday fans at a game.Vile yobs flashed a picture of Lowery in the stands of a match at Hillsborough as they laughed at their own sick joke.Baldock’s funeral was held at the end of October with fellow footie stars Dele Alli and Dean Henderson among the players at the sombre ceremony. Born in Buckinghamshire, Baldock had Greek roots through his grandmother and played for the country 12 times.He graduated from MK Dons’ youth set-up, where Alli also played before his move to Tottenham in 2015.Baldock is regarded as a Sheffield United legend for his stint at the clubCredit: GettySheffield United players held up a shirt to Baldock in a touching tributeCredit: GettyPaying a heartbreaking tribute to Baldock earlier this month, Alli said it had been an “honor to know” him.He wrote on Instagram: “No words I could type or pictures I could use would ever be enough.”May your spirit, ambition, determination and humility live on through those who had the honour of knowing you!”I love you brother and will miss you forever!”My thoughts, prayers and heart goes out to your family! Rest in peace Balders.”Baldock made his name with the Blades, playing over 200 times for the club 2017 and 2024.He had joined Panathinaikos from the South Yorkshire side this summer.The defender made four appearances for the Greek side this season, including three in the league.READ MORE SUN STORIESBaldock was found unresponsive in his private swimming pool just a day after his final match.He was also due to fly back to the UK to see his fiancee Annabel and son Brody hours after he was discovered. 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.Baldock was among their standout players as he registered a staggering 3,420 Premier League minutes – 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.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.Baldock’s funeral took place in his native BuckinghamshireCredit: LNPBaldock was playing in Greece after joining Panathinaikos in the summerCredit: Rex More

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    Former light heavyweight boxing champion-turned-TV-star dies aged 45 as he recovered from heart surgery

    FORMER light heavyweight boxing champion and TV star Vyacheslav Uzelkov has died aged 45.Reports in his native Ukraine claim the ex-fighter passed away after recovering from heart surgery.Former boxing champ Vyacheslav Uzelkov has died aged 45Credit: AlamyHe won 30 of his 34 fights, recording 19 KOs in the processCredit: AlamyUzelkov was recovering from heart surgery when he passed awayCredit: AlamyHe became a TV star and even went into politics after retiring from boxing in 2014Credit: AlamyUzelkov was once a top boxer in the ring, winning 30 of his 34 fights while recording 19 KOs.He was a former WBA Inter-Continental, IBO International and WBO Inter-Continental light heavyweight champion.Uzelkov, nicknamed ‘Steel Power’, made his bow in 2004 before retiring a decade later.After quitting the ring, Uzelkov started a new career in his homeland as a TV presenter.READ MORE IN BOXINGHaving reportedly featured in a dancing show during his boxing days, he ended up becoming a judge on Ukraine’s version of Britain’s Got Talent.In 2020, Uzelkov had a brief stint in politics after running to become mayor of Vinnytsia, a city in central Ukraine.But earlier this year he went under the knife for heart surgery.Uzelkov had been recovering from the operation when he passed away.Most read in BoxingAnd a statement from Ukraine’s boxing federation paid tribute to him online.It read: “Ukrainian boxing has suffered a heavy loss – Vyacheslav Uzelkov has passed away. ‘Can you imagine Jake Paul’s face,’ says Mike Tyson trainer as he breaks boxing pad with brutal power in training video “His name will forever remain in the history of sports, and his example of strength, resilience and dedication will inspire future generations.”Fans also paid tribute on social media.One said: “Thoughts with family and friends and boxers that looked up to him.”Another added: “Rest in peace.” More

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    Christian Ziege shares heartbreaking statement after wife dies as Premier League icon, 52, says ‘the world has stopped’

    FORMER Liverpool star Christian Ziege is mourning the death of his wife, Pia.Pia passed away on Monday after a long battle with a serious illness.Christian Ziege’s wife, Pia, has passed awayCredit: Instagram @ziege.christian17Ziege announced his wife’s death on social media with a heartbreaking statementCredit: Instagram @ziege.christian17Ziege previously played for LiverpoolCredit: PA:Press AssociationEx-Premier League star Ziege announced the devastating news on social media this morning.He wrote: “And there are always traces of your life, thoughts, pictures, moments.”They will remind us of you, make us happy and sad and never let us forget you.”Our world has stood still since November 4th. After a long and serious illness, Pia has closed her eyes forever.Read More in Football”We would like to thank everyone who has walked this long and difficult path with us, as well as for the great sympathy and compassion. Pia, you will live on forever in our hearts.”Ziege and his wife had been married since 1997.They share two children – Alessandro and Maria. The former Germany international is also a father figure to Pia’s daughter, Katharina.Most read in FootballZiege retired from professional football in 2005 having played for the likes of Bayern Munich, AC Milan, Middlesbrough, Liverpool, Tottenham and Borussia Monchengladbach.He was also capped 72 times by the German national team.After retiring, the 52-year-old went on to pursue a career in management.He most recently took charge of FC Pinzgau but left in September 2022.Ziege’s career statsClubs:Bayern Munich: 227 games, 46 goals, 41 assistsAC Milan: 47 games, 10 goals, 14 assistsMiddlesbrough: 33 games, 7 goals, 1 assistLiverpool: 32 games, 2 goals, 6 assistsTottenham: 55 games, 10 goals, 14 assistsBorussia Monchengladbach: 14 games, 1 assistTrophies:1x European Championship (Germany)2x Bundesliga (Bayern Munich)1x Serie A (AC Milan)2x Europa League (Liverpool, Bayern Munich)2x FA Cup (Liverpool)1x League Cup (Liverpool) More

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    Tyson Fury’s coach and legendary boxing mentor who helped turn him into world champion dies aged 85

    THE BOXING coach who helped turn Tyson Fury into “The Facebreaker” has died.Dave Stacey, who has died aged 85, was the first coach to teach young Fury boxing at Torbay Amateur Boxing Club, in Devon.The coach helped train Tyson Fury when he was youngerCredit: GettyThe veteran was credited with helping the future champion pick-up the fundamentals during long stints when he stayed with family in the South West.It helped cement the talent that saw him nicknamed “The Facebreaker” after he shattered an opponent’s jaw and eye socket as an amateur.Mike Reardon, the club’s chairman, said Mr Stacey had been the heavyweight’s first coach.He said: “Tyson would have taken part in group sessions for beginners where they learn the basics like stance and how to punch.Read more sport“We have a lot of boys and girls coming and going at the gym and it’s impossible to remember them all, but I think Dave always remembered Tyson because of his size. He was tall for a lad his age.”Fury has said that after his parents separated he spent a lot of time with an auntie and uncle in Torquay.He said in an early interview: “They helped me learn how to read and write. I went swimming and surfing. The first gym I went to was in Torquay.“My dad would hold up his hands and say “one two,” but that was all. He never said he wanted me to box or took me to the gym. Most read in Boxing”He didn’t even know when I first started going to the gym.”The gym where Fury trained was at a former church and Stacey was the head coach there.Fury went on to join Jimmy Egans’s Amateur Boxing Club in Manchester and had his first amateur bout for them when he was 16 years old, in March, 2005.There was a riot after his second amateur bout in Hinckley, Leicestershire, two months later.Dave’s daughter Nicole led tributes, saying: “First and foremost, he was a real family man and was always very proud to tell other people that he felt like the luckiest man in the world to be a husband and father and we really felt that love.”He was a very loyal person and would do absolutely anything for us. People would always describe him as a real character and he was unashamedly himself.“He had the ability to talk to anyone and put them at ease.”If there was a setback of any kind he wouldn’t dwell on it, he would tell people how he felt, pick himself up and take the challenge on. I suppose that’s the boxing mentality and focus.”READ MORE SUN STORIESPaying tribute, a Facebook post from Torbay Boxing Club added: “Torbay ABC are extremely saddened to hear of the passing of Dave Stacey, a highly regarded coach for the club.”RIP Dave you were a true legend.”Dave Stacey pictured alongside Tyson FuryFury trained at Torbay Boxing Club after spending a lot of time with an auntie and uncle in Torquay.Credit: Getty More

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    Former British boxing champion shares heartbreaking news after son found dead in his flat with family devastated

    FORMER boxer Rendall Munroe has announced the tragic death of his son.The former British super bantamweight champion shared the heartbreaking update on Sunday evening.Rendall Munroe has shared the shock death of his sonCredit: PA:Press AssociationMunroe faced Toshiaki Nishioka for the WBC super bantamweight in 2010Credit: AP:Associated PressMunroe, known affectionately as The Boxing Binman, enjoyed a decade-long career in the ring. He hung up his gloves in 2014 and formerly held the EBU and Commonwealth Super Bantamweight titles.The 44-year-old, who is now a boxing trainer, took to his social media on Sunday to share a devastating personal update.He revealed his son Tiela, who was in his mid-20s and a former youth footballer with Leicester City, had been found dead on October 25. READ MORE ON BOXINGMunroe wrote on X: “Myself and [partner] Lisha have not said anything. “But we think it’s time to say as people have heard but don’t know what to say or how to ask if it’s true. “Friday 25th are[sic] first born Tiela was found in his flat dead.”Myself, mum, brother and sister are heartbroken at this moment in time.”Most read in BoxingTiela was honoured during Thursday night boxing at Leicester’s Mattioli Arena, where Munroe’s fighter Sean Bruce was taking on Callum Singh.Munroe hails from Leicester and spent the majority of his early career balancing his boxing with working as a bin man.Munroe was known as The Boxing Binman due to his day jobCredit: GettyHe eventually packed in his refuse work when he got the call to challenge Toshiaki Nishioka for the WBC super-bantamweight title in Japan in 2010. He recalled in an interview with talkSPORT: “Mike and Jay [Shinfield, my trainers] said to me, ‘Look, you need to concentrate more on the boxing now’.“It was the wrong thing to do because I used to like being a ‘normal person’.”I liked being a boxer for a training camp, eight weeks, and then I’m just Rendall, back on the bins – a normal guy.”After [the Nishioka fight], everything became boxing. You’re bored in the daytime but can’t train because you’d over-train.”I was always very active, so it messed me up a little. I started going for runs when I didn’t need to. READ MORE SUN STORIES”When I retired [in 2014], I went back and they told me I had no job.”Munroe finished his pro career with 28 wins from 34 fights, with 11 victories by KO. More

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    Trevor Whymark dead at 74: Ipswich legend and one-cap England international passes away as tributes pour in

    FORMER Ipswich Town star Trevor Whymark has died aged 74 after an 18-month battle with Alzheimer’s.The one-time England international spent a decade at Portman Road from 1969 to 1979.Ipswich Town legend Trevor Whymark has died aged 74Credit: GettyWhymark bagged 104 goals at Portman RoadCredit: RexWhymark made one appearance for England in 1977Whymark scored 104 goals in 335 outings for Ipswich.And he scooped two trophies with the club, first landing the Texaco Cup in 1973 before securing FA Cup glory in 1978.Whymark remains Ipswich’s sixth-highest goal scorer.He was inducted into the club’s Hall of Fame in 2012.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd the forward’s prowess up top saw him land one England cap against Luxembourg in 1977.Whymark was signed by Ipswich from Diss Town in 1969 by Sir Bobby Robson.After 10 years at Portman Road, he spent time with Derby County and Dutch side Sparta Rotterdam.Whymark then enjoyed a spell in Canada with the Vancouver Whitecaps, scoring 25 goals in 57 games while winning the NASL (North American Soccer League) title.Most read in FootballWhymark was inducted into Ipswich’s Hall of Fame in 2012Credit: AlamyWhymark also won the North American Soccer League title with VancouverCredit: RexHe returned to England in 1980 with Grimsby Town, where he netted 16 times in 93 games over four years.And between 1984 and 1985, he played for Southend, Peterborough and Colchester before closing the door on his career with boyhood club Diss Town as player-manager for a year.After retiring, he coached youth sides at both Norwich and Ipswich.But last year Whymark’s family announced he was battling Alzheimer’s.Ipswich led the tributes to their former star, saying: “The club is saddened to report the passing of Town legend Trevor Whymark at the age of 74.“Trevor, who scored 104 goals in 335 appearances for the Club, died peacefully surrounded by his family. Rest in peace, Trevor.”The PFA said: “Everyone at the PFA is deeply saddened by the passing of Trevor Whymark.“Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with Trevor’s family, friends and loved ones.”Former BDO world darts champ Keith Deller said: “Trevor was one of my all-time favourite Ipswich players.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Fantastic football and such sad news. RIP Ipswich legend.”An Ipswich fan added: “RIP the great Trevor Whymark. Brilliant, underrated striker and lovely, unassuming man.” More