England Under-21 star James McAtee paid a touching tribute to the late George Baldock as he scored a brilliant brace for the Young Lions.
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McAtee played with Baldock at Sheffield UnitedBaldock found dead in Greek villa earlier this weekMcAtee pays tribute after goalFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
McAtee scored twice as England's U21s beat Ukraine on Friday, with his first goal coming in the 88th minute – a scorching free-kick that found the top corner – and his second in injury time. After netting what was a brilliant set-piece, the Manchester City ace, who spent two seasons on loan at Sheffield United, revealed a tribute to Baldock, who was found dead earlier this week. On his undershirt, a message read: "GB 2 (referring to Baldock's old squad number). Rest easy brother x."
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Baldock joined Panathinaikos from Sheffield United in the summer and, earlier this week, he was found dead in the swimming pool at his Greek villa after his wife raised the alarm from England, having failed to contact him. Tributes have been paid from across the game, and Greece dedicated their win over England in midweek to their late team-mate, who won 12 caps.
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McAtee's brilliant brace was exactly what England needed, as they cut the gap on Ukraine to two points in Group F of their U21 European Championship qualifying group. It remains to be seen if it leads to more opportunities at the Etihad. The midfielder has made four first-team appearances in all competitions this season, scoring against Slovan Bratislava in the Champions League.
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McAtee is likely to play when England face Azerbaijan on Tuesday. He will then return to City to prepare for their Premier League clash with Wolves at Molineux.
