With his insistence that George Baldock’s “attitude epitomises a Sheffield United footballer,” Chris Wilder may have given the strongest hint yet that he intends to keep the defender at Bramall Lane for the upcoming season. As things stand, the 31-year-old’s current contract is scheduled to expire in the summer.
Although the Blades have not publicly stated whether they have the option to extend his contract, it is known that the Greek international has previously drawn interest from some of the biggest clubs in his adopted country after making his eagerly anticipated debut for Gus Poyet’s team back in 2022. Baldock, who joined United in 2017 after leaving MK Dons, has played a significant role in the team’s development and is rumoured to be established in Sheffield.
In United’s last match before the current international break, a 2-2 draw at Bournemouth, the right-back made his first start of the season and played the entire match, demonstrating his fitness and dedication to the cause. Though he did not expressly address Baldock’s future, his choice to speak highly of him might be seen as an indication that Wilder is not eager to lose Baldock in the summer. The defender’s talent as well as his attitude have impressed the manager.
“You must fully commit,” stated the Blades manager. “That’s a request from the Sheffield community that supports Sheffield United, the football team, and me. He enjoys the club, and he’s settled in nicely. The way his career has developed since joining the team has delighted the club. It feels like ages ago!
“In my opinion, his demeanour perfectly embodies that of a Sheffield United player. He puts forth a lot of effort both on and off the pitch, giving it his all. And for that reason, he and his supporters have a strong bond. He is the brilliant child, the changing room’s soul and still life. However, he does it with deference. He’s really well-mannered and driven to succeed.”
Additionally, Wilder has personally witnessed Baldock’s incredible rise from rookie right-back at MK Dons to established professional with 83 Premier League games and 10 Greece caps. Baldock has experienced loan stints at Tamworth and Icelandic side ÍBV. “It was a surprise when he talked about playing international football,” said Wilder. We thus discussed grandparents, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and the Republic.
And when he appeared in the Grecian hues, it was a total surprise. But in my opinion, that’s only something he can do to further develop himself in the future. He still has a lot of football ahead of him and is in a fantastic age.
Everyone needs to keep an eye on his injuries as he’s suffered a few setbacks. However, he should be happy with his professional accomplishments thus far, and he will want to continue pushing himself even harder.”
