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    Jack Grealish’s girlfriend shares new snap of their daughter Mila with striking similarity to Man City ace

    JACK Grealish’s baby daughter has a fine head of hair — just like her football star father.Little Mila was seen with a full dark mop despite being less than a month old — albeit with no sign of her dad’s trademark Alice band.England football star Jack Grealish announced the birth of his daughter this monthCredit: GettyBaby Mila has a good head of hair, just like her dadProud mum Sasha Attwood, 28, posted a snap showing the back of her daughter’s head.She and her Manchester City star boyfriend, 29, welcomed their first child last month.In the image, baby Mila is wearing a pink baby grow with angel wings attached to the back.Sasha embellished the post with heart and angel emojis. READ MORE ON JACK GREALISHGrealish has described the birth of his daughter as the “best moment of my life”.He has been recalled to the England squad after being dropped for the Euros and scored in the 3-1 win over Finland.The couple announced they were expecting in July with Sasha showing off her big baby bump.Sasha spent a lot of her pregnancy testing out different clothing and offering tips and advice for other mums-to-be.Most read in FootballShe signed a lucrative deal with PrettyLittleThing in the summer and began plugging the brand’s maternity wear to her thousands of social media followers.Sasha has been with the midfielder throughout his professional football career – supporting him at Villa before the star’s £100million move from their hometown of Birmingham to Manchester in 2021.’Are you seriously talking about that?’ – Jack Grealish told off by England interviewer after being asked about KaneShe celebrated with the winger on the pitch as he won his second Premier League title with City earlier this year.Sasha, 28, has helped Grealish ditch his party boy persona and they now have a family, welcoming their child into their £5.6million Cheshire mansion with their beloved apricot cockapoo Skye.Jack posted this pic of his newborn to InstagramCredit: Instagram @jackgrealishSasha and Jack have been dating since they were teenagersCredit: Instagram @sasha__rebeccaSasha Attwood and Jack Grealish have become parents for the first time, but their relationship started well over a decade ago…The pair met as teens in Solihull, West Midlands at secondary school, with Sasha previously saying they have been together since she was 15.Jack was already on his way to becoming a professional footballer when he met Sasha.Despite the long-term nature of their relationship, she remained on the sidelines when his career took off.However, intense interest in Jack’s private life came to a head in 2021 when England reached the final of Euro 2020, delayed a year because of the Covid-19 pandemic.Because of their romance, Sasha was cruelly targeted by trolls on TikTok and Instagram, receiving 200 death threats a day from “young girls”.The pair were spotted on holiday together following the tournament and slowly began showing more of their relationship on social media when the vile trolling died down.In 2022, they celebrated their 10-year anniversary and purchased a seven-bed mansion set in 24 acres worth £5.6 million.They moved in to the home in late 2023, but Sasha and members of Jack’s family were subject to a terrifying robbery while cheering on the Manchester City star during a televised match just after Christmas.Their latest milestone is Sasha’s pregnancy, which they announced on social media on July 7, and the birth of daughter Mila Rose on September 27. More

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    Cole Palmer delivers one-word verdict on Chelsea wonderkid, 17, in message to him before he’s even played for Blues

    CHELSEA star Cole Palmer called Brazilian wonderkid Estevao Willian, who will move to Stamford Bridge in the summer, a “star”. The Blues reached a deal with Palmeiras to sign Estevao, 17, in May following a £56million agreement with the youngster staying with the Brazilian giants until he turns 18 years old.Chelsea star Cole Palmer called soon-to-be team-mate Estevao Willian a ‘star’Credit: AFPEstevao emulated Palmer’s signature celebration a day after signing with ChelseaCredit: AlamyThe winger scored a goal a day after penning with the West Londoners and revealed he emulated Palmer’s famous “cold” celebration, which sees him rub his arms as if he’s shivering.That led to an exchange between the two soon-to-be team-mates on social media with the England international complimenting the forward’s skills and talent.The Chelsea star also told the teenage sensation that he is looking forward to doing “a lot of great things” together next season.Estevao told The Guardian: “When I signed for Chelsea, the next day I scored a goal and celebrated like Palmer.Read More on Football”His celebration was trendy, very popular. We talked on social media, I tagged him on Instagram.”He called me a star, I said he’s a star too. He said we’re going to do a lot of great things together for Chelsea.”Estevao has amassed a total of 15 goals and 10 assists in 42 appearances with Palmeiras and was also called up for international duty by Brazil’s senior team.The forward has already picked up two caps and is expected to mix things up with some of his international team-mates in the Premier League.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThat includes Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson, with whom he had a funny interaction recently while on national duty.Estevao added: “In shooting training, I started to hit all the shots and Alisson got a bit angry.Chelsea fans love Cole Palmer’s reaction to huge brawl – but work out clever reason why he didn’t get involved”He said he was still warming up, that I should wait a little bit. But I took it a bit seriously and scored many goals [against] him.”He took it all in jest, but I hope that next year I can do [it] again against him in [Premier League] matches. We’ll see a lot of each other in England.” More

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    Inside ‘World’s sexiest athlete’ Alica Schmidt’s jet-setting summer after amazing trips to Italy, Thailand and Maldives

    ALICA SCHMIDT had fans longing for the beach as she shared pics from her glamorous sunny holidays.Schmidt, 25, is a German runner who competed in the Paris Olympics last summer but failed to qualify for the women’s 4x400m relay final.Alica Schmidt shared pics of her glamorous sunny holidayCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdSchmidt went to Italy, Thailand and the MaldivesCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdSchmidt shared a series of bikini snaps for her fansCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdSchmidt enjoyed the crystal waters with some jet-skiingCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdSchmidt shared a series of glam pics for her followersCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdThe athlete has amassed a huge following on social media with her glamorous persona seeing her dubbed the “world’s sexiest athlete”.And she took Instagram by storm as she shared pictures of her recent trips to Italy, Thailand and the Maldives.The German posted photos and videos of her in a bikini enjoying the sun and crystal waters. She also showcased her jet-skiing skills for her fans during her time off.Read More on SportSchmidt posted: “Life is worth living.”The former Olympics competitor’s 5.8million followers were left gobsmacked as they took to the comments section.One fan wrote: “Beautiful caption & video.”Another commented: “I cannot get enough views of that gorgeous water!!!”Most read in AthleticsA third posted: “Life is beautiful and worth living – live it.”This one said: “Absolutely amazing.”Alica Schmidt gives fans glimpse behind scenes at final day at Olympic village and closing ceremony And that one gushed: “Strong and beautiful.”SEE MORE OF ALICA SCHMIDT’S GLAMOROUS LIFE…Schmidt is one of Germany’s top athletesCredit: GettyShe competes in track and field for her countryCredit: GettySchmidt was part of the relay squad for the Tokyo Olympic Games but didn’t competeCredit: ReutersSchmidt has acquired a cult following onlineShe has five million Instagram followersCredit: alicasmd/InstagramThe German is very particular about working with brands More

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    Bloodied Zlatan Ibrahimovic shows off gruesome head injury but Andy Carroll tells him ‘I’ve had worse from the missus’

    ANDY CARROLL gave a hilarious response to Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s post showing off a bloody injury.The Swedish legend posted a picture of his scalp, which had suffered a nasty cut.Zlatan Ibrahimovic showed off a gruesome injury on InstagramCredit: Instagram @iamzlatanibrahimovicAndy Carroll had a hilarious responseCredit: AFPIbrahimovic, 43, shared the snaps on social media with the caption “part of the game”.He also added a trigger warning for people who may be squeamish to gore.Plenty of his 64.3million followers share their sympathy for the former AC Milan and Manchester United star.However, Andy Carroll also joined in the many comments as he gave a funny response.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe joked: “Grow up, I’ve had worse from the missus.”Fans found the joke funny as they commented on Carroll’s post.One wrote: “The legend has spoken.”A second commented: “Lotta time for that comment.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSA third said: “Big Andy’s not messing.”Another added: “Hahaha amazing.”Watch Andy Carroll score twice in a ‘PARK’ and celebrate wildly as he tears up fourth tier of French football Ibrahimovic retired from football in 2023Credit: GettyIbrahimovic retired from professional football in 2023 after his second stint at AC Milan.Carroll, 35, however, is still playing and, in the summer, joined French fourth-division side Bordeaux.The striker has already become a cult hero at the club, having dropped down to help the club climb back up the divisions.He was recently spotted in Mallorca on holiday with his new girlfriend Lou Teasdale.He was previously married to Billy Mucklow, but their 11-year relationship came to an end earlier this year.Carroll starred for the likes of Newcastle, Liverpool and West Ham before he left England in 2023 for France.Who are these famous footballers? More

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    George Baldock: Dele Alli pays heartbreaking tribute to tragic ‘brother’ after shock death aged 31

    DELE ALLI has paid a heartfelt tribute to his former MK Dons team-mate George Baldock.Baldock tragically passed away last week aged 31, drowning in his swimming pool at his villa in Greece.Greece defender George Baldock tragically passed away last weekCredit: REXBaldock was team-mates with Dele Alli during their time at MK DonsCredit: INSTAGRAM@DELEAlli has been left heartbroken by the passing of his ‘brother’Credit: INSTAGRAM@DELEThe 28-year-old has paid a touching social media tribute to his late friendCredit: INSTAGRAM@DELEThe Greece international’s loved ones and former clubs have paid emotional tributes since his deeply tragic passing.And Alli – who spent four seasons with Baldock at MK Dons – has paid a second social media tribute to the defender.In an emotional Instagram post, he wrote: “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!READ MORE ON GEORGE BALDOCK”I love you brother and will miss you forever!”My thoughts, prayers and heart goes out to your family! Rest in peace Balders.”Alli’s first tribute to Baldock last Thursday, which included a snap of the pair laughing, read: “I love you! Rest in peace, my brother.”Former Sheffield United man Baldock leaves behind his son Brody, who he had with fiancee Annabel Dignam.Most read in FootballA devastated Dignam wrote in her own tribute to the love of her life: “George, the love of my life, my soulmate.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.”The perfect dad to our beautiful boy.”You completed me. You were my world and I know we were yours.George Baldock’s devastated fiancée pays heartbreaking tribute to star who was ‘love of her life'”You are here with me in Brody’s smile, giggle and infectious personality.”My world will never be the same but I will find a way for Brody. I promise.”I love you forever and always G. Your Neen. X”England and Greece paid a touching tribute to Baldock ahead of their Nations League clash at Wembley last Thursday.The Greeks honoured their late team-mate with a famous 2-1 win, in which they held up his shirt after both goals.READ MORE SUN STORIESAfter the final whistle, match hero Vangelis Pavlidis told ITV: “It was a really special game for us because of George and, of course, we gave everything for him and for his family.“Great win but [what is] more important are the emotions and that we are people and that our special night is because of him.”Greece paid tribute to the late George Baldock after their famous win over England at WembleyCredit: ALAMY More

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    Chelsea legend’s daughter opens up on feeling ‘at her lowest’ as she poses in lingerie to celebrate ‘inner strong woman’

    JADE LEBOEUF has opened up on feeling at her “lowest” as she shared stunning pictures of herself.The daughter of Chelsea legend Frank has amassed a huge following of people interested in her glamorous lifestyle.Jade, 33, has almost a quarter of a million followers on Instagram as she shares pictures as an influencer and model. However, despite her apparent glam life she does not always feel on top of the world.In her latest collection of snaps, she admitted that they were taken when she felt low.The pictures showed her in a multiple series of poses in a set of black lingerie.READ MORE ON SPORTJade insisted that they were captured so she could feel the “strong women” inside herself.She wrote: “I made this series of photos at a time when I was at my lowest emotionally, and I needed to awaken the strong woman in me.”I assure you that it did me a world of good to feel beautiful and sensual.”It allowed me to reconnect with myself, with my identity, and with who I really am.”Most read in FootballFans loved the post as they hailed her honesty in sharing them.One posted: “I hope you get much better very quickly. Courage.”Chelsea legend’s daughter cheekily shows off her bum in bold outfit as stunned fans say ‘excuse me?’ She is the daughter of Chelsea legend Frank LeboeufCredit: PAA second wrote: “Very beautiful Jade.”A third commented: “Beautiful! And I find your way of facing challenges very inspiring because when you are underwater it is difficult to find a way to get back up.”A fourth said: “You are radiant!”Another added: “The most beautiful.”She is married to French reality TV personality Stephane Rodrigues and the pair have a three-year-old son together.Her father established himself as a Blues legend during his spell at the club between 1996 and 2001.Leboeuf, 56, played 203 times for Chelsea and scored 24 goals as he helped the club win the FA Cup in 1997 and 2000.Take a look inside Jade’s glamorous life…Jade has built up a loyal following on social mediaCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufThe stunning model is followed by over a quarter of a million peopleCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufShe regularly shares risque contentCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufThe French national works as a modelCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufShe was used to the limelight from an early age as the daughter of Chelsea legend Frank LeboeufCredit: Instagram @jadeleboeufJade describes herself as a digital creatorCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufHer posts tend to draw hoards of comments with fans often describing her as ‘beautiful’ and ‘sexy’Credit: instagram @jade_leboeufShe’s not afraid to wear revealing outfitsCredit: jade_leboeuf/instagramSee-through outfits are a favouriteCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufHer father Frank played for Chelsea from 1996 to 2001Credit: Instagram @jadeleboeufHe won two FA Cups during his time in West London when Jade was still a kidCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufHe was also a World Cup winner with France in 1998, giving him legendary status in his home countryCredit: INSTAGRAM @jade_leboeufJade is now making her own wayCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeuf More

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    Bukayo Saka injury update with Arsenal star set to miss England’s Nations League clash with Finland

    BUKAYO SAKA is expected to miss England’s Nations League clash on Sunday with Finland through injury.The Arsenal star hobbled off six minutes into the second half of Thursday’s 2-1 home defeat to Greece, holding the back of his right leg as he left the pitch.Bukayo Saka limped off during England’s 2-1 defeat against GreeceCredit: PAThe Arsenal star is now a doubt for the Three Lions next game against FinlandCredit: RexHe will undergo a scan but the knock – believed to be a strain – is not thought to be serious.So while he is a major doubt for the match in Helsinki, his club will be hopeful he will be available for selection for their Premier League trip to Bournemouth next Saturday.Interim England chief Lee Carsley confirmed after the loss to Greece that Saka had been withdrawn due to feeling some discomfort in the build-up to Greece’s first goal.The 50-year-old said: “He’s being assessed.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“Obviously in the build-up to the first goal, you could see he felt something in his leg.”Carsley will give an update on Saka’s fitness tomorrow in his pre-match press conference previewing the Finland game.Saka, 23, has been in hot form for his club.He netted in both their 2-0 win over Paris Saint-Germain and 3-1 victory over Southampton earlier this month.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSaka was replaced by Noni Madueke in the match last night.Jude Bellingham looked to have spared England’s blushes with a late goal, but that was undone when some more shoddy defending allowed Vangelis Pavlidis to net his second of the night in injury time.Bukayo Saka declares ‘this is Arsenal’s year’ and they will win Premier League titleEngland player ratings vs GreeceBy Tom BarclayLEE CARSLEY’S tactical experiment of playing no strikers backfired as Vangelis Pavlidis’ double secured an emotional shock win for Greece at Wembley.Interim England boss Carsley played all three of our nation’s gifted No10s – Phil Foden, Jue Bellingham and Cole Palmer – in varying positions.But it did not work and the Greeks took a deserved lead thanks to Pavlidis’ belting second-half finish.The visitors then held up a shirt in celebration bearing the name Baldock – in reference to their team-mate George Baldock, whose passing at the age of just 31 on Wednesday rocked the world of football.Bellingham looked to have ensured the points were shared with a thunderous strike with three minutes to go.But there was still time for Pavlidis to expose some woeful defending deep into injury time by firing past Jordan Pickford.Here are SunSport’s player ratings from a dire night for England under the arch.Jordan Pickford: 4Wandered into no-man’s-land territory outside his box early on and lost the ball, allowing Greek skipper Tasos Baksetas a free shot at goal – only to be saved by Levi Colwill’s last-gasp clearance. Did not instil confidence, despite his experience.Trent Alexander-Arnold: 6Some tasty passes – they are his speciality, after all – but not great at the back. He, John Stones and Cole Palmer were weak in their attempt to close down Vangelis Pavlidis before the Benfica man smashed home the opener.John Stones: 5Made captain for what was his 82nd cap, surpassing Rio Ferdinand’s haul. But it was a shaky display from his defence and Stones should have done better to stop Pavlidis.Levi Colwill: 7Greece would have been ahead far sooner were it not for Colwill’s athletic hack away to deny Bakasetas. Replays showed it would have crossed the line had the Chelsea man been a split second later with his incredible intervention.Rico Lewis: 6Tried to bomb up the left flank where he could but, just like Kieran Trippier at the Euros, was hamstrung by constantly having to cut back onto his favoured right foot.Declan Rice: 6Played as England’s only holding midfielder, as fans had been imploring Gareth Southgate to use him for years. It was not like he was overrun but his side did look vulnerable on the counter.Phil Foden: 4Spent most of the game pressing the Greek backline as a false nine without really getting on the ball and causing any damage. Ineffective. Cole Palmer: 6Deployed in a deeper, central-midfield role which at least meant he saw plenty of the ball, though he blazed England’s best chance of the first half over the bar. Remarkably, his first competitive England start, despite being named on Tuesday as Three Lions player of the 2023-24 season. Bukayo Saka: 5Struggled to get into the game and then was forced out of it, worryingly limping off early in the second half. The last thing Arsenal fans wanted to see.Jude Bellingham: 7 STAR MANPlayed in a false nine position and had a belting early shot well saved. The system did not work but Bellingham still so nearly emerged as the saviour by banging in his first goal of the season for club and country.Anthony Gordon: 5Caused Greece few problems and his touch looked off it. Had a decent chance from Alexander-Arnold’s peach of a delivery but headed over.SUBS: Noni Madueke (for Saka 52): Played out on the left, rather than his natural right, when coming on. Went down in the box deep into injury time but no penalty was given. 6Ollie Watkins (for Gordon 60): Almost scored with his first touch when played through by Palmer, but smashed just over. 7Dominic Solanke (for Foden 72): Grabbed an assist when laying the ball back to Bellingham who thumped in the leveller. 7Manager Lee Carsley: 4Seemed to gamble unnecessarily with this experimental system instead of playing it safe to add another win to boost his case to earn the job full-time. Carsley played without a natural centre-forward when winning the Under-21 Euros because he had to after Flo Balogun switched the USA and Rhian Brewster got injured, but here he did it by choice and it did not work. Bellingham looked to have saved his bacon – but then Pavlidis struck again. More

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    George Baldock’s devastated fiancee pays heart-breaking tribute to ‘love of her life’ after ex-Prem star’s death

    GEORGE Baldock’s heartbroken fiancee has paid a touching tribute to the footballer describing him as her “soulmate” and the “perfect dad”.The Greece international, 31, was found dead at home in Athens on Wednesday evening after drowning in his swimming pool – leaving behind a devastated Annabel Dignam and their son Brody.George Baldock’s cause of death has been revealed as drowningCredit: RexBaldock’s heartbroken fiancee Annabel Dignam has paid a touching tribute to the footballer describing him as her ‘soulmate’ and the ‘perfect dad’Credit: Facebook/ Annabel DignamBaldock with his son Brody saying farewell to Sheffield United fans last seasonCredit: GettyTributes have been laid for the ex-Sheffield United player outside Bramall LaneCredit: GettyGreece players holding up a shirt in memory of George Baldock at Wembley tonightCredit: PAAnnabel broke her silence with an Instagram post dedicated to Baldock just hours after his cause of death was confirmed.She wrote: “George, the love of my life, my soulmate. The perfect dad to our beautiful boy. “You completed me. You were my world and I know we were yours.”You are here with me in Brody’s smile, giggle and infectious personality.read more in George Baldock”My world will never be the same but I will find a way for Brody. I promise.”I love you forever and always G. Your Neen. X”You completed me. You were my world and I know we were yours.You are here with me in Brody’s smile, giggle and infectious personalityAnnabel DignamGeorge Baldock’s fianceeThe post was followed by a loving snap of the couple together smiling.His family also revealed the football star, who moved to Greece to play for Panathinaikos FC, was due to return to the UK on Thursday to celebrate his birthday.Most read in FootballA separate tribute hours earlier by his family described Baldock as the “most special person”.It continued: “You were the most special father, fiancee, son, brother, uncle, friend, teammate and person.”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.”You were due to fly home today for us to celebrate his first birthday together, but instead we mourn your loss.”George Baldock one minute silenceThe family also confirmed his cause of death as drowning in his swimming pool at his Greek home.Investigations into Baldock’s shock death revealed the ex-Sheffield United player died in the water.Annabel first raised the alarm after not hearing from her soon-to-be husband.After failing to track him down, she told the owner of the house in Glyfada to check the property.The full-back, who joined Athens side Panathinaikos from Sheffield United this summer, was found at the bottom of the pool by his landlord who jumped over the fence to get into the home.The Greece international, who was born in Buckingham but qualifies for the team via his grandmother, was found wearing swimming trunks and was pulled out of the water by emergency services.They tried to resuscitate him but sadly could not revive him.Baldock’s body was pulled from the bottom of his pool on WednesdayCredit: LNPBaldock was known to English fans as one of Sheffield United’s key men as they bounced between the Premier League and ChampionshipCredit: GettyEngland and Greece paid tribute to Baldock during tonight’s Nations League clashForensic scientists who conducted the autopsy on Baldock at Athens’ University Hospital on Thursday say he was dead for five hours before he was discovered.The family’s touching statement ended with them saying: “As a family it has been incredibly touching, but equally so very difficult to read the huge number of tributes written by those that knew George and from those whose life he touched.”It was impossible not to love him. We ask that you please continue to respect our privacy at this devastating time as we begin to process our grief.”Cops said it would be ” several weeks, if not months” before the full autopsy and toxicology results were released.A half-empty bottle of vodka and two glasses were found next to the pool – with police initially investigating whether another person was present at the time.Officials have since ruled out any criminality was at play in his death.TRIBUTES POUR INOther heartfelt tributes have continued to be made for Baldock after his death was confirmed.Panathinaikos said: “We are shocked, we are shocked by the loss of our George.”The family of Panathinaikos mourns his untimely death. We stand with the family and loved ones of George Baldock.”Baldock played for his club side on Sunday during a 0-0 draw with fierce rivals Olympiacos.He played 75 minutes before being subbed off.The club have confirmed he last trained with them on Wednesday before driving home to his €15,000-a-month apartment.They will be shocked. I remember him at Sheffield United. He had huge energy and was always up for a battle.Roy Keaneex-footballer and ITV punditFormer side Sheffield United also paid tribute saying: “Sheffield United Football Club is shocked and extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player, George Baldock.”The defender left the club in the summer after seven years at Bramall Lane and was extremely popular with supporters, staff and team-mates who pulled on a red and white shirt alongside him.”The sincere condolences of everyone associated with Sheffield United are extended to George’s family and friends.”England and Greece stars also held a minutes silence ahead of their Nations League clash tonight.Pundits on ITV paid tribute Baldock ahead of the game on live TV.Ian Wright said: “Terrible news, shocking news. You cannot help but think about his friends and family, I spoke to Karl Robinson [former MK Dons manager] last night who was devastated.”He was hard-working and strong minded, You always thought, the way he applied himself, he was always going to get to where he wanted to go in the Premier League.”I’m very sorry and all my condolences go to his family.”The Arsenal and England legend worked alongside Baldock during a coaching stint MK Dons, where the British-born Greece international graduated through the academy.READ MORE SUN STORIESManchester United and Republic of Ireland icon Roy Keane added: “They will be shocked. I remember him at Sheffield United. He had huge energy and was always up for a battle.”The players will react, be professional and go and put on a performance for him.”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.Baldock was loved by Greece fans after he played a key role in shutting out Kylian Mbappe and France last yearCredit: GettyBaldock had moved to Panathinaikos FC at the start of this seasonCredit: Rex More