GEORGE Baldock's body is expected to fly back to the UK this weekend - with cops ruling out criminality in the ex-Premier League star's tragic death.
The defensive ace, 31, was found dead at his home in Athens on Wednesday night after drowning in his pool.
Repatriation efforts are now underway and his body is due to return to the UK this weekend, sources say.
"If the paperwork is ready, the repatriation can take place... that means by this weekend," a source in Greece told The Sun.
Greek police on Friday ruled out criminality saying all the evidence had pointed to an accident that had caused Baldock to drown.
A police spokeswoman said: "From the evidence up to now, based on the coroner's initial assessment of the body and the scene at the house, criminal action has been ruled out.
"It really does seem that this was an accident and case of drowning but we have to wait for the toxicological tests."
The Sun reported yesterday how tests could take "weeks, if not months" to confirm the exact nature of Baldock's death.
Baldock's agent said she did not want to comment.
The footballer's fiance Annabel Dignam last night has paid a touching tribute to her "soulmate" and the "perfect dad".
In an Instagram post she wrote: "George, the love of my life, my soulmate. The perfect dad to our beautiful boy.
"You completed me. You were my world and I know we were yours.
"You are here with me in Brody's smile, giggle and infectious personality.
"My world will never be the same but I will find a way for Brody. I promise.
"I love you forever and always G. Your Neen. X"
The post was followed by a loving snap of the couple together smiling.
His family also revealed the football star, who moved to Greece to play for Panathinaikos FC, was due to return to the UK on Thursday to celebrate his son's birthday.
A separate tribute hours earlier by his family described Baldock as the "most special person".
It continued: "You were the most special father, fiancee, son, brother, uncle, friend, teammate and person.
"Your enthusiasm and infectious personality brought so much love to those that were fortunate enough to know you and those that adored you from the stands.
"We will forever cherish the special memories we have of you and you will continue to live on in your beautiful son.
"You were due to fly home today for us to celebrate his first birthday together, but instead we mourn your loss."
Annabel first raised the alarm after not hearing from her soon-to-be husband.
After failing to track him down, she 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 in 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 police.
They tried to resuscitate him but sadly could not revive him.
His family confirmed his cause of death as drowning.
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.
TRIBUTES POUR IN
Other heartfelt tributes have continued to be made for Baldock after his death was confirmed.
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.”
Baldock played for his club side on Sunday during a 0-0 draw with fierce rivals Olympiacos.
He played 75 minutes before being subbed off.
The club have confirmed he last trained with them on Wednesday before driving home to his €15,000-a-month apartment.
Former side Sheffield United also paid tribute saying: "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."
England and Greece stars also held a minutes silence ahead of their Nations League clash last night.
Pundits on ITV paid tribute Baldock ahead of the game on live TV.
Ian Wright said: "Terrible news, shocking news. You cannot help but think about his friends and family, I spoke to Karl Robinson [former MK Dons manager] last night who was devastated.
"He was hard-working and strong minded, You always thought, the way he applied himself, he was always going to get to where he wanted to go in the Premier League.
"I'm very sorry and all my condolences go to his family."
The Arsenal and England legend worked alongside Baldock during a coaching stint MK Dons, where the British-born Greece international graduated through the academy.
Manchester United and Republic of Ireland icon Roy Keane added: "They will be shocked. I remember him at Sheffield United. He had huge energy and was always up for a battle.
"The players will react, be professional and go and put on a performance for him."
