Tearful James McAtee says it has been ‘hard to talk’ to his old Sheffield United team-mates after the death of George Baldock as the Man City youngster pays tribute to a ‘special person’

An emotional James McAtee dedicated both England Under-21 goals to the late George Baldock at the end of a painful week.

The Manchester City midfielder formed a bond with Baldock after spending two years on loan at Sheffield United and the pair remained close.

McAtee took the news of Baldock’s death to heart and broke down in tears as he paid tribute to the 31-year-old, who drowned in Greece on Wednesday.

“I’ve been talking to some of my old teammates and, to be honest, it’s been hard to talk to them,” said a visibly upset 21-year-old.

‘Even when I left (Sheffield United) he was still texting me asking if I needed anything. When I was there he welcomed me with open arms, he took care of me.

“I played for him and for what he gave me. Everyone knows he is a special player and a special person. I’m very emotional right now and I wish his family the best. It’s been a tough week.”

McAtee had prepared a “rest easy brother” shirt to reveal in case he scored and finished with a late double to inspire England to a 2-1 victory over Ukraine, a result that effectively confirms their qualification for the European tournament. next summer. Championship.

“I was desperate to score,” he added. ‘When I did it it was in honor of George. Luckily I have been here with my teammates from England but I have kept it in mind.

“I’ve been saying all week, and the guys back me up, that I was going to score a free throw. I just felt it. My free throws have been good in training.

“The second is something my coach at home (Pep Guardiola) has been telling me to do: get into the box and create overloads and numbers and you’ll have a chance. He’s been telling me to add it to my game recently.