Former Sheffield United defender George Baldock drowned while swimming in the pool at his home in Athens, his family has confirmed.
Greek police earlier said there was no evidence that criminal activity caused the death of the 31-year-old Greece international, who signed for Athens club Panathinaikos in the summer.
“We are heartbroken with the sudden passing of our beloved George. We can confirm that a post-mortem examination has found that George tragically drowned whilst swimming in the pool at his home in Glyfada, Athens,” a statement from Baldock’s family read.
“George, you were the most special father, fiance, 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.
“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.”
It came as England and Greece footballing stars came together to pay tribute to the late footballer in an emotional minute's silence ahead of their game at Wembley on Thursday.
An image of the footballer was shown on the stadium big screens.
The Greek players were pictured before kick off holding up a shirt with Baldock’s name on the back.
A statement from the Greek national team said: "There are no words to describe the human pain caused by the news of the unexpected loss of one of our own, young, man. The moment forces silence. Condolences to his family. Condolences from his second family."
Baldock died on Wednesday evening after returning to his home after he reportedly trained as normal with his team mates aat PanathinaikosA police source involved in the inquiry told the Guardian: “He was found lifeless at the bottom of the pool and pronounced dead at 10.38pm last night (Wednesday).
“All the evidence, so far, points to death by drowning.”
A statement from Greece's Ministry of Citizen Protection released on Thursday read: "A preliminary investigation has been carried out by the Attica Security Directorate.
"A forensic pathologist was called to the scene and examined the body with no evidence of criminal activity.
"In addition, the police searched the house to determine if there are any traces of a burglary, with a negative result.
"Also, a specialised team of the Criminal Investigation Directorate of the Police carried out a check at the house in order to exclude the possibility of criminal activity."
