Sheffield United honour George Baldock before Leeds match after tragic death
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Before their Championship match on Friday night, Sheffield United and Leeds United paid tribute to the late George Baldock.
Baldock, who made over 200 appearances for Sheffield United, was discovered deceased at the age of 31 earlier this month in Athens, Greece.
The full-back signed with Panathenaikos this summer after spending seven years at Bramall Lane, where he played a key role in helping the Yorkshire team achieve two promotions to the Premier League.
In a heartfelt evening at Elland Road on Friday, the fierce competition was momentarily forgotten as the Blades traveled a short distance to play their first match since the passing of Baldock.
Both teams took the field wearing black armbands. They held a moment of silence that transformed into a minute of applause and cheers before the game. Representatives from each club placed flowers as a sign of respect.
The Blades section of the crowd was adorned with flags and shirts displaying Baldock's name and image, along with Greece flags, showcasing the nation he represented on the international stage.
Fans honored Baldock’s memory by leaving flowers and wreaths outside Bramall Lane after his unexpected passing.
Sheffield United's manager, Chris Wilder, brought Baldock on board in 2017, having previously worked with him at Oxford United. Before the game, he mentioned that the team was still grappling with the recent news.
“It’s been very challenging,” Wilder shared with BBC Radio Sheffield. “It makes you see everything in a different light, doesn’t it?”
"We're part of the football world and passionate about the sport, but something much bigger than just the game will be happening this Friday."
"I need to discuss the match, as well as reflect on the unfortunate loss of a player who held great significance for everyone at Sheffield United."
