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      Bruno Fernandes takes swipe at Man Utd as he reveals he prefers playing for Portugal and the food is better

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      BRUNO FERNANDES has suggested that he prefers playing for Portugal over Manchester United.The 30-year-old admitted today that United’s current situation is “not positive”.Bruno Fernandes has suggested he prefers playing for PortugalCredit: EPAThe midfielder has endured a difficult start to the season with UnitedCredit: GettyThe Red Devils currently sit 14th in the Premier League table with just eight points from seven games.They have also managed just two points from two in the Europa League.And the situation was made worse last week when club captain Fernandes received a red card against Porto.Amid the ongoing chaos at Old Trafford, the midfielder now considers international duty with Portugal a nice break away.READ MORE ON MAN UTDHe said: “It’s not a positive moment. We’re not winning games and the national team space is completely different.”I’ve felt very at ease, the dynamics are very good. I’m in my country, I speak my language and I have better food. I have demonstrated a good level in the national team.”It’s a space where I feel good and I feel like I can enjoy my football at a very high level, due to the dynamics we have and the quality I have at my side.”Fernandes went on to add: “It’s about improving as soon as I get there [Manchester].Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”Making the goals appear again because I’m a midfielder that scores a lot of goals and has over the years always shown a very high level of goals.”I have to live up to those expectations and to my standards. What I’ve been doing is not at all what I want for this season because I haven’t scored at the club yet.Bruno Fernandes rages in live TV interview after being SENT OFF for first time in Man Utd career vs Tottenham”I hope that once I get there, I can score and help my club get back to winning ways and be at a good level.”Man Utd next face Brentford in the Premier League after the international break. More

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      Premier League set for THREE major broadcast changes with revolutionary new-look features including mid-match interviews

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      THE Premier League is set for THREE major broadcast changes, according to reports. And the new-look features would transform the way fans watch matches on TV.Broadcasters could get extra access to players and managers with new rulesCredit: GettyCameras in the dressing room could provide plenty more insightIt is suggested half-time interviews with a player or coach will be introduced.Interviews with players who have been subbed off and broadcasts inside the dressing room will also be added to the programming. Reports claim clubs must choose one of the three options for each Premier League game. Currently, media access to players is reserved for after matches.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe likes of Sky Sports and TNT Sports usually speak to one or two stars as part of their live broadcast programme – as well as Match of the Day.At least one player from every team is put up to speak to Premier League Productions.For the written press, they are not guaranteed to speak to any players – even though the footballers are obliged to go through the mixed zone.For the managers, though, they must speak to both the broadcast and written media. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSGames that are live on TV usually see the pundits and presenter chat to the gaffers ahead of kick-off, too. But access to managers and players has historically been strictly off limits from kick-off to the full-time whistle. Gary Neville gives behind-the-scenes tour of new job as he misses Sky Sports’ coverage of Aston Villa vs Man UtdHowever, Sky Sports did speak to Marcus Tavernier late on in Bournemouth’s 3-1 win over Southampton on September 30. The unprecedented changes would give extra insight while the matches are going on.In other sports such as rugby and NFL, TV cameras have access to the changing rooms and regularly interview stars or coaches on the sidelines to get their verdict on how things are going. And football fans would no doubt relish the additional broadcast changes.One said on X: “It could add some excitement and insight during the matches.”Another wrote: “Interesting changes! It’ll be fun to hear insights right from the pitch!”A third added: “This is beautiful.”A fourth quipped: “United footage from the dressing room is going to hit numbers.”And a fifth joked: “Imagine being 5-0 down at half-time then you see journalists coming your way to ask you questions…”But others felt other changes were more pressing.One suggested: “We need post-match referee interviews before all this other nonsense.”Another replied: “Clubs will likely just send a player out at half-time for a generic interview. ‘Game of two halves’, ‘try and get the next goal’, ‘defend properly’ etc.”READ MORE SUN STORIESA third typed: “This ain’t necessary.”And a final user simply responded: “No one wants this.”Extra access to Premier League stars would be a major draw for many fansCredit: Twitter / @footballontntPlayers only currently speak to the media after full-timeCredit: Alamy More

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      Chelsea transfer target opens up on failed move and says ‘God didn’t want it’ but admits he was ‘close to signing’

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      CHELSEA transfer target Samu Omodorion reveals he came close to joining in the summer but believes God did not want it to happen.The striker was subject to transfer interest throughout the window and eventually joined Porto on loan from Atletico Madrid.Samu Omorodion has opened up about his failed move to ChelseaCredit: ReutersHe has got off to a good start at his new club with seven goals in seven games, including three in the Europa League.Omorodion, 20, expressed his gratitude to Porto for giving him an opportunity and suggested his proposed move to Chelsea just was not meant to be.He told Spanish outlet RTVE: “I had a very difficult summer.”We had a really bad time because in the end everyone knows that I was close to signing, but it’s true that if it didn’t happen, it was for a reason, because God didn’t want it.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”I’m also very grateful to Porto for giving me the opportunity when things looked at their worst, and I’m very happy with where I am now. “I’ve left the past behind and now I’m focused on what’s coming to me.”Chelsea were reported to be interested in securing a deal for Omorodion when they were trying to push through Conor Gallagher’s move to Atletico.The Spanish side were in need of cash to sign the midfielder so looked set to sanction a £35million sale of Omodorion.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHowever the move collapsed after Chelsea reportedly tried to buy 50 per cent of Omorodion’s image rights.Omorodion later joined Porto with the Blues signing another Atletico star Joao Felix instead.Watch Enzo Maresca’s incredibly blunt response when asked if he has regrets about axing Chelsea star from squad More

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      What Sir Alex Ferguson ruthlessly told Man Utd stars after Aguero’s iconic goal won Man City the Premier League

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      MANCHESTER UNITED legend Rio Ferdinand has recalled exactly what Sir Alex Ferguson said after rivals Manchester City won the Premier League title back in 2012.City snatched the Prem trophy straight from the hands of Ferguson and Co on a dramatic final day twelve years ago.Man Utd narrowly missed out on the Prem title to Man City in 2012Credit: GettyPhil Jones has opened up about the defeatCredit: EPASir Alex Ferguson was left furiousCredit: Getty – ContributorRio Ferdinand has recalled what the United boss saidCredit: GettyUnited provisionally held the top spot following a 1-0 win over Sunderland – while Roberto Mancini’s side were level at 2-2 with Queens Park Rangers.However, Sergio Aguero scored a last-gasp winner for City to clinch the league title.Man Utd players went from delight to despair within a matter of moments at the Stadium of Light.Recalling the occasion with Ferdinand on his Rio Presents YouTube channel, ex-defender Phil Jones explained: “We’re away at Sunderland, we win the game 1-0. Our game’s finished and I walked off the pitch, and Berber’s [Dimitar Berbatov] gone to me, ‘it’s done, it’s done,’ so I think we’ve done it.READ MORE ON MAN UTD”So I’m thinking, we’ve done it, we’ve won the league.”And anyway, as it transpires the game’s not finished. Then, obviously, I can’t even name him, goes and scores and that was it.”The feeling… I’ve never been in a dressing room like that before. Never.”He was then asked about Ferguson’s reaction, to which Ferdinand chimed in to reply: “He said, ‘you experienced players, you’ve run this course, you’ve been here.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”‘But you young ones,’ and he named you, Chris Smalling, Welbs [Danny Welbeck], Clevs [Tom Cleverley] etc.”He went, ‘you listen now and you remember the faces out there,’ because the Sunderland fans were laughing at us and they were cheering when the goal went in.Rio Ferdinand rang Wayne Rooney and asked ‘how are you allowing this-‘ about two Man Utd stars’ behaviour”So he said, ‘you remember their faces, you remember what it’s like and you remember this feeling here, now, the day you come back into pre-season next season. You don’t let that happen again.'”And we won the league the next season.”Man Utd went on to win the Premier League in 2013 to end Ferguson’s 27-year spell as manager on a high. More

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      Jamie Vardy and wife Becky take secret flight to Bahrain in huge transfer hint over Leicester legend’s next club

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      JAMIE VARDY and his wife Becky secretly flew to Bahrain this week as Saudi football clubs continue to clamour to sign him.Insiders said Vardy, who is set to leave Leicester next summer, flew out to the country where fellow Brit Steven Gerrard lives.Jamie Vardy could be set for a summer move to Saudi ArabiaCredit: GettyVardy and wife Becky have shared pictures of them in the Middle EastCredit: InstagramVardy snubbed a move to Saudi last yearThe couple stayed at the Four Seasons hotel in the country, which is next door to Saudi Arabia.A source said: “Jamie and Becky went to Bahrain this week to check it out.“He is in demand from Saudi clubs and while he’s still playing the field he could see what it would be like to possibly live out there.“Bahrain is an hour or so drive from some of Saudi’s big clubs and it’s an amazing country, with a culture very similar to that in Dubai. It’s super relaxed and very glamorous.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“While it was a holiday for them both, and involved a trip to Dubai too, it gave Jamie time to think about what he could do next after he leaves Leicester next summer.“People who know them have joked about a deal in Saudi could easily pay off Becky’s Wagatha Christie bill.”Vardy, who has been with Leicester since 2012, turned down a move to Saudi last summer when he still had a year left on his contract.Clubs, including Khaleej, made a bid for Vardy but he rejected the deal because he didn’t think a move would suit his family.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe family could finally be set to leave England for the Middle EastDespite the rejection, it was reported that Saudi dealmakers were speaking with intermediaries working on Vardy’s behalf to try and negotiate an offer.It is believed a deal struck with Vardy could net him £4million a year.Fans tell Jamie Vardy ‘never change’ as footage emerges of Leicester star slide tackling a KID during title celebrationsClubs including Al-Shabab and Al-Qadsiah were reported to be pursuing Vardy.Former Liverpool star Gerrard manages Al Ettifaq and lives between Saudi and Bahrain – which is favoured by Wags because of its more relaxed laws.His wife Alex enrolled their three youngest children into an exclusive English language school in Bahrain and regularly posts pictures online of her in fancy restaurants.Their home in Bahrain is just a one hour drive from Saudi, where Gerrard’s team are based.Earlier this year, Gerrard’s former Liverpool team-mate Jordan Henderson quit Saudi after six months with Al Ettifaq. More

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      George Baldock: Greece star’s classy gesture to tragic footballer caught on live TV after shock win over England

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      GREECE ace Lazaros Rota paid a touching tribute to his late great team-mate George Baldock after a famous victory over England.Baldock was found dead in his home in Glyfada on Wednesday night when he drowned in his swimming pool at the age of 31 plunging the football community into mourning.Greece right-back Lazaros Rota dedicated the win over England to George BaldockBaldock played ahead of Rota at right-back in the Greek national teamCredit: RexA devastated Greek national team found the strength to put on a heroic performance and snatch an emotional 2-1 win in London, which they dedicated to their team-mate and his family.Benfica star Vangelis Pavlidis commemorated the Sheffield United legend by raising his black armband in the air and pointing to the heavens after scoring both of his goals.And after the match Ivan Jovanovic’s men lined up in front of the away end with Baldock’s jersey in an emotional scene that led to many breaking down in tears.That was when right-back Rota, 27, who played behind Baldock in Greece’s pecking order, pointed at the ITV camera and dedicated the win to his former team-mate.Read More on FootballThe AEK Athens ace cried: “Georgie, for you.”This was Greece’s first ever win over England and the team became the first ever Greek side to win at Wembley.That was after the visitors’ captain Tasos Bakasetas issued a spine-tingling pre-match speech urging his team-mates to “sacrifice” themselves on the pitch for Baldock.The full-back was so passionate that he often risked his physical well-being on the pitch, such as against France last year in Paris where he played with a swollen ankle and still silenced Kylian Mbappe.Most read in FootballThere were no celebrations from the Greek national team, who were still overwhelmed by the horrific news, after the game.Watch Greece captain’s spine-tingling speech about George Baldock in dressing room that inspired win over England Instead, Bakasetas and Pavlidis opted to use that time to reflect on their friend and his family.Baldock was found dead in the swimming pool of his Greek apartment on Wednesday evening.His family has now confirmed his cause of death as drowning in his swimming pool.They have released a touching statement saying: “We are heartbroken with the sudden passing of our beloved George.Ex-Sheffield United full-back Baldock was supposed to fly back to the UK on Thursday to celebrate his son Brody’s birthday.Baldock moved to Greece after joining Athens side Panathinaikos from Sheffield United this summer.His heartbroken fiancee Annabel Dignam hailed him the “love of my life” and “my soulmate” in an emotional tribute.She said: “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.”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”His fiancee Annabel Dignam said her ‘world will never be the same’Credit: Facebook/ Annabel DignamGeorge Baldock waves to fans at Bramall Lane on May 19, 2024Credit: GettyA minute’s silence was held in his memory at Wembley before England and Greece’s Nations League clashCredit: ReutersCops said it would be “several weeks, if not months” before the full autopsy and toxicology results were released.Officials have ruled out any criminality was at play in his death.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.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe club confirmed he last trained with them on Wednesday before driving home to his €15,000-a-month apartment.England and Greece stars held a minute’s silence ahead of their Nations League clash.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

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      Nottingham Forest slapped with staggering fine after shocking tweet following defeat to Everton

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      NOTTINGHAM FOREST have been hit with a huge fine after their shocking tweet following last season’s defeat to Everton.Forest lost 2-0 at Goodison Park in April’s potential relegation clash.Nottingham Forest have been fined after their tweet following last season’s defeat at EvertonCredit: GettyBut chiefs were left fuming as they felt Forest were denied three clear penalties.The club then published a wild post on X claiming that the VAR ref on the day was “a Luton fan”, with the Hatters also battling for safety at the time.It read: “Three extremely poor decisions – three penalties not given – which we simply cannot accept.”We warned the PGMOL that the VAR is a Luton fan before the game but they didn’t change him.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Our patience has been tested multiple times. NFFC will now consider its options.”Forest were then hit with misconduct charges by the FA.And they have now been fined a massive £750,000.A statement read: “Nottingham Forest have been fined £750,000 and warned for misconduct in relation to comments posted on social media after their Premier League game against Everton on Sunday 21 April.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”The club denied that the comments posted on social media imply bias and/or question the integrity of the match officials and/or the video assistant referee and/or bring the game into disrepute.”An independent Regulatory Commission found the charge to be proven following a hearing and imposed the club’s sanctions.”Football icons’ strange hobbiesNottingham Forest have confirmed that they will appeal the decision.A club statement read: “Nottingham Forest Football Club is extremely disappointed with the decision of the Regulatory Commission to impose a £750,000 fine in relation to comments posted on social media following our Premier League fixture against Everton on Sunday 21 April.”We are particularly concerned that The FA, in its submissions, sought a sanction ‘in excess of £1,000,000’. “We believe that this request, along with the subsequent fine, is wholly disproportionate and the Club will be appealing the decision.”Following their initial tweet in April, Forest demanded the VAR audio from the game against Everton was released.Refs chief Howard Webb even went as far as to admit mistakes were made in the match.But that still didn’t save Forest from their FA charge.Thankfully for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side, they ended up beating the drop last season.READ MORE SUN STORIESInstead it was Luton who dropped to the Championship.And Forest are now looking solid in 10th place this term. More

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      Watch Greece captain’s spine-tingling speech about George Baldock in dressing room that inspired win over England

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      GREECE captain Tasos Bakasetas delivered a spine-tingling speech dedicated to the late George Baldock that inspired his team-mates to victory against England before stepping out at Wembley.Baldock was found dead at his home in Glyfada on Wednesday night at the age of 31 plunging the English and Greek football community into mourning.Greece captain Tasos Bakasetas delivered a spine-tingling pre-match speech before the win over EnglandCredit: instagramBakasetas inspired his Greece team-mates to fight for George Baldock after his tragic deathCredit: EPAGreece dedicated their famous win over England to Baldock after the whistleCredit: AlamyThe former Sheffield United star’s team-mates were in London when the news broke and were left devastated ahead of Thursday’s crunch Nations League clash with the Three Lions.However, Bakasetas, 31, took it upon himself to lift his team-mates’ spirits with a powerful pre-match speech in the dressing room.The Panathinaikos star, who also played with Baldock for the Athenian club, described the Buckingham-born ace as an “example” that would even sacrifice his physical well-being for the team. The playmaker then went on to order his team-mates to return the favour by stepping onto England’s hallowed Wembley turf and “sacrificing” themselves.Read More on FootballBakasetas stated: “We know very well what kind of team we are because we earned our way.”We have no one to fear and we should show it from the first minute. We know the game’s importance. Many of us know who George is and what kind of a man he was.”George was always an example for this team. Because many times he left his soul on the pitch. He prioritised the team above all else and he even sacrificed his physical wellbeing.”And tonight in this game he will be our example. Each and everyone of us will sacrifice ourselves to honour him exactly as he deserves. Let’s all be ready. Let’s go!” Most read in FootballGreece went on to produce an incredible performance as they beat England for the first time ever and picked up their first ever victory at Wembley.Vangelis Pavlidis scored a stunning brace to break Three Lions hearts and deliver a hammer blow to interim boss Lee Carsley’s hopes of replacing Gareth Southgate full-time.England and Greece stars in emotional minute’s silence to pay tribute to George Baldock after tragic death at 31Pavlidis and his team-mates dedicated both goals to Baldock as they lifted their black armbands and pointed to the heavens.However, there was no celebration at full-time, instead the visitors lined up in front of the away end with Baldock’s jersey in an emotional scene that saw many break down in tears.Pavlidis refused to talk about the game in his post-match interview and instead paid tribute to the ex-MK Dons ace.The Benfica star said: “It was a very peculiar day. Our thoughts are with George. The game was not postponed, we are here and [we are] professionals, we played, we gave our souls for him. “[These are] Very difficult times, it was a peculiar match because of that happened with George. It’s not a day to talk about football, he was part of our team and all I can say is he’s going to be sorely missed, we wish strength to his family.”The whole day was silent, even now, we can’t say much. A picture is worth a thousand words, there are no words.”Paying tribute to BaldockBakasetas, who was reduced to tears at full-time, echoed is team-mate’s statement as he paid homage to Baldock’s character and professionalism.The ex-Trabzonspor star even shared two anecdotal stories that showed how dedicated the defender was to the national team.Bakasetas said: “I’m very proud to have these team-mates. We want to dedicate this game to George and his family This way we will try and give them some strength.”It’s a game that shouldn’t have happened in my opinion. It’s not a day we can talk more about football. George today was our guide. He always put the team above all else.”In France last summer he played with an ankle banged up and still delivered for the team.”And against Georgia [in the final of the Euro 2024 play-off qualifying round] he was hurt and knew he would get injured but fought with doctors so that he can play and left it all on the pitch.”We thank him for everything. We wish strength to his family.”Fiancee’s tributeBaldock’s fiancee released a statement last night hailing him the “love of my life” and “my soulmate” in an emotional tribute.She said: “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.”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”Baldock was found in the pool by his landlord, who jumped over the fence.Emergency crews pulled the footballer from the water, but were unable to resuscitate him.Forensic scientists who conducted the autopsy on Baldock at Athens’ University Hospital on Thursday said he was dead for five hours before he was discovered.READ MORE SUN STORIESCops said it would be “several weeks, if not months” before the full autopsy and toxicology results were released.Officials have ruled out any criminality was at play in his death. More