Sheffield United investigation into Maddy Cusack’s death finds ‘no evidence of wrongdoing’ after 27-year-old vice-captain’s family said her spirit was ‘allowed to be broken by football’

• Cusack died at her home in Horsley, Derbyshire on September 20
• Her family raised concerns about processes and conduct at the club
• United appointed an independent third party in October to carry out the probe 

Sheffield United have completed an investigation into the death of vice-captain Maddy Cusack and have concluded there was ‘no evidence of wrongdoing.’

Cusack, who was the club’s longest serving player and their first to reach 100 appearances, died at her home in Horsley, Derbyshire, on September 20. Police said there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding her death.

Sheffield United appointed an independent third party in October to carry out a formal investigation into concerns the family had raised about processes and conduct at the club.

A statement from Sheffield United said: ‘Following a thorough review of the valuable input provided by each of the key witnesses put forward by Maddy’s family and the Club, the investigation has found no evidence of wrongdoing.

‘The Club is always looking for ways to evolve and will reflect on the outcomes and recommendations arising from the investigation to consider how processes and policies may be improved.’

An investigation into the death of Maddy Cusack by her club Sheffield United as found ‘no evidence of wrongdoing’  

Cusack’s mum (left) Deborah spoke of her heartbreak following her daughter’s tragic passing

Cusack’s mother Deborah said ‘her spirit was allowed to be broken’ by football  

(Left to right) Sheffield United’s women’s team captain Sophie Barker, Maddy Cusack’s sister and mother and former player Tony Currie lay flowers in her memory

An inquest into Cusack’s death was opened at Derby Coroner’s Court in October and adjourned.

In September, Sheffield United’s women’s first team manager Jonathan Morgan stepped away from the club after a formal complaint was made over alleged behaviour towards certain players.

Mail Sport understands that an investigation has been completed and that Morgan is free to resume his duties should he wish to.

The manager has not been on the touchline since the Blades’ 1-0 victory over Lewes on September 17.

Assistant coach Luke Turner has been in charge since Morgan stepped away from his duties.

Morgan spent seven years with Leicester and took the club from the fourth tier to the Women’s Super League before being dismissed in November 2021.

He was appointed manager of Burnley in May 2022 and went 16 games unbeaten before leaving for Sheffield United earlier this year.

Tributes were paid to Cusack, with fans placing her No 8 shirt and flowers at Bramall Lane

Floral and other tributes, including a Sheffield United scarf and shirt outside Bramall Lane

Sheffield United women’s first team manager Jonathan Morgan stepped away from the role

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