'The whole day was numb' - Greece's Vangelis Pavlidis opens up on emotional reaction to tragic death of George Baldock

A historic first victory over the Three Lions was secured at Wembley Stadium as Pavlidis bagged a brace in a 2-1 UEFA Nations League triumph. Supporters celebrated wildly in the stands, but there was a muted reaction from those on the field.

That is because the Greek squad is still coming to terms with the tragic loss of team-mate Baldock – who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 31. A minute’s silence was observed in his honour ahead of Greece’s meeting with England.

A shirt bearing Baldock’s name formed part of post-match celebrations at Wembley, with Pavlidis telling reporters of the mixed emotions being experienced in the Greek ranks: "It was a very special day and match for us. Our thoughts are with George. We are professionals and had to play the match. We gave our soul for him tonight. Today is not a day to talk about football. He was part of our team. We will miss him very much. Also to wish strength to his family and not talk about football. The whole day was numb. We won tonight and don't want to celebrate. There are just no words."

Greece coach Ivan Jovanovic added on the team spirit displayed by his players, as they honoured the memory of Baldock: "At such moments football comes second. The time he was with the team he made his mark and that was visible in the way the players played today."

Former Sheffield United and MK Dons defender Baldock, who joined Panathinaikos in May, earned 12 caps for Greece – with the last of those coming in March. Jovanovic’s side will be back in action on Sunday when playing host to the Republic of Ireland.