Greece 'request to postpone' England clash in wake of George Baldock's sudden death

The Greece squad are mourning the death of George Baldock (Image: Eurokinissi/AFP via Getty Images)

The Greek Football Association have reportedly been in 'constant contact' with UEFA, as they look to postpone this evening's Nations League fixture against England in the wake of George Baldock's tragic death.

Ex-Sheffield United star Baldock, who passed away at the age of 31, was born in Buckinghamshire but won 12 caps for Greece through his grandmother's heritage. The defender, who joined Panathinaikos in the summer, would have been in the squad for tonight's clash but was ruled out through injury.

Baldock was found dead in his swimming pool on Wednesday evening in Glyfada, southern Athens, after his wife, who was in the UK, raised the alarm to the authorities after struggling to get in contact with him.

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Baldock's family released a statement: "We can confirm that George has sadly passed away. As a family we are in shock at this terrible loss. We ask please that the media respect our privacy at this time."

According to Greek news outlet SDNA, the Hellenic FA have been in 'constant contact' with UEFA about postponing the match. However, UEFA have insisted that the game will go ahead as originally scheduled.

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The report has also added that the Greece squad are in a 'state of shock' that they are still having to play against England. The Greek FA's X account posted a message with a black background advertising the Nations League match.

Before the game kicks off, both squads will pay tribute to Baldock, with black armbands worn.

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The Greek FA said in a statement: "With profound sadness and sorrow, the national team and the Greek Football Federation bid farewell to George Baldock.

"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."

England also expressed their condolences: "We're extremely saddened by the passing of George Baldock. George was close to many of our players, and represented Greece our opponents on Thursday night. We're thinking of George's family, friends and team-mates at club and country at this difficult time."

Greece 'request to postpone' England clash in wake of George Baldock's sudden death

Greece 'request to postpone' England clash in wake of George Baldock's sudden death

Greece 'request to postpone' England clash in wake of George Baldock's sudden death

Greece 'request to postpone' England clash in wake of George Baldock's sudden death

Greece 'request to postpone' England clash in wake of George Baldock's sudden death