Chris Wilder: Team Must Honor Baldock’s Legacy Amidst Grief

Chris Wilder, Sheffield United’s manager revealed that his players have struggled this week following the tragic death of former defender George Baldock. The Greece international was found dead in his swimming pool in Athens last week, prompting an outpouring of grief from the club and its supporters. Baldock, who spent seven years at Bramall Lane and played 219 matches, helped the team secure two promotions to the Premier League before moving to Panathinaikos in the Greek Super League earlier this summer.

Wilder, who signed Baldock in 2017 after their time together at Oxford United acknowledged the difficulty in coping with the news while preparing for Friday’s Championship match against Leeds United. He expressed the profound impact Baldock had on everyone at the club, saying, “It puts everything into perspective, doesn’t it? There’s something miles bigger than the game of football on Friday.”

Baldock’s career trajectory which saw him rise from loan spells to playing in the Premier League was a source of inspiration for many. Wilder praised Baldock’s professionalism, personality and the bonds he formed with his teammates emphasizing the close-knit culture within the team. “These boys are in each other’s pockets 24/7 for 10 or 11 months of the season,” he noted, highlighting the depth of their connection.

While the team navigates this difficult time, Chris Wilder reiterated the importance of honoring Baldock’s memory by continuing with life and football. “We have to get on with life, do what’s right, and do what George would have wanted us to do,” he said, indicating the team’s commitment to pushing forward while cherishing the legacy of their beloved teammate.