GEORGE Baldock's cause of death has been revealed after the footballer's body was found in his pool five hours after he died.
The defensive ace, 31, was found dead at home in Athens on Wednesday night with his family left in the dark over how the star died.
Investigations into Baldock's shock death have revealed the ex-Sheffield United player drowned in water, say Greek outlet Kathimerini.
A large amount of water was found in Baldock's lungs leading police to believe he drowned in his swimming pool.
Initial autopsy results confirmed the likely cause of death as "microscopically foamy microbubbles" had formed on the footballer - an indication of drowning.
Forensic scientists who conducted the autopsy on Baldock at Athens' University Hospital today say he was dead for five hours before he was discovered.
A police source told the Sun: “There were no bruises or cuts on his body.
"When he was removed from the bottom of the pool and turned round water gushed out of him, suggesting, of course, that he had drowned.”
But it remains unclear why the water got into his lungs in the first place.
Cops said it would be " several weeks, if not months" before the full autopsy and toxicology results were released.
A half-empty bottle of vodka and two glasses were found next to the pool - with police initially investigating whether another person was present at the time.
Officials have since ruled out any criminality was at play in his death.
According to Greek media, Baldock's wife - who lives in England - was trying to contact the former Sheffield United star and had began to worry.
After failing to track him down, she then told the owner of the house in Glyfada to check the property.
The full-back, who joined Athens side Panathinaikos from Sheffield United this summer, was found at the bottom of the pool by his landlord who jumped over the fence to get into the home.
The Greece international, who was born in Buckingham but qualifies for the team via his grandmother, was found wearing swimming trunks and was pulled out of the water by emergency services.
They tried to resuscitate him but sadly could not revive him.
The emergency service (EKAV) doctor deemed that Baldock's death had occurred at least an hour before he was found by the landlord.
Tributes flowed to Baldock following the news of his death.
Baldock's family later released a statement saying: "as a family we are in shock at this terrible loss."
The football clubs he played for also released touching tributes.
Panathinaikos said: "We are shocked, we are shocked by the loss of our George.
"The family of Panathinaikos mourns his untimely death. We stand with the family and loved ones of George Baldock.”
Former side Sheffield United also paid tribute.
They said: "Sheffield United Football Club is shocked and extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player, George Baldock.
"The defender left the club in the summer after seven years at Bramall Lane and was extremely popular with supporters, staff and team-mates who pulled on a red and white shirt alongside him.
"The sincere condolences of everyone associated with Sheffield United are extended to George's family and friends."