CNN
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George Baldock, a British-born soccer player who played for Panathinaikos and the Greek national soccer team, has died at the age of 31, Greece’s Ministry of Citizen Protection confirmed to CNN.

Baldock’s body was found in a swimming pool at his home in the southern Athens suburb of Glyfada, Reuters reported, citing police sources.

“The preliminary investigation is being carried out by the Attica Security Directorate,” Greece’s Ministry of Citizen Protection said in a statement to CNN Sport.

“A forensic pathologist was called to the scene and examined the body but found no signs of criminal activity. The police searched the apartment and ruled out a break-in.

“In addition, a special team from the Police Forensic Investigation Directorate conducted an inspection of the apartment to rule out the possibility of criminal activities,” the statement said.

Athens football club Panathinaikos, which signed Baldock on a three-year contract earlier this year, paid tribute to the player, writing in a statement: “We are shocked and horrified by the loss of our George.” Panathinaikos’ family is mourning his sudden death.

“We stand with the family and loved ones of George Baldock.”

Baldock represented Greece twelve times during his career. In a statement on Facebook, the Greek national team announced the defender’s death “with deep sympathy and pain.”

It added: “There are no words to describe the human pain caused by… the news of this untimely loss of one of our fellow human beings.” The moment requires silence. Condolences to his family. Condolences from his second family. Goodbye…”

Baldock began his career at MK Dons and went on to play for Oxford United and Northampton Town, among others, before playing for Sheffield United in the Premier League.

“Sheffield United Football Club is shocked and extremely saddened to learn of the death of former player George Baldock,” the club said in a statement.

“The defender left the club in the summer after seven years at Bramall Lane and was extremely popular with fans, staff and team-mates who wore a red and white jersey alongside him

“The sincerest condolences of everyone associated with Sheffield United go out to George’s family and friends.”