Maddy Cusack's manager allegedly made her uncomfortable before death

Maddy Cusack, a former Sheffield United footballer, was found dead at her home in Horsley, Derbyshire, on September 20, 2023, at the age of 27. Her father, David Cusack, revealed that Maddy had felt pressured and uncomfortable due to her manager's behavior before her death.

An inquest into her death at Chesterfield Coroner's Court commenced on June 29, 2026, nearly three years after her passing. David stated that Maddy was concerned about potential stigma from Sheffield United and head coach Jonathan Morgan regarding her mental health issues. He described her as being very unhappy at Leicester City before her move to Sheffield United in 2019, citing a poor relationship with Morgan as a significant factor.

Upon leaving Leicester City, Maddy became Sheffield United’s first player to achieve 100 appearances. Her father explained that Maddy felt compelled to leave Leicester primarily because of pressure and an unpleasant atmosphere created by Morgan. He recounted that the team, previously owned by Morgan's family, aimed to offload players as promotion aspirations faded. David said, "Madeleine was dependent on me at that time, so when she was unhappy there because life had been made so unpleasant for her, she decided that she wanted to leave."

In Sheffield, Maddy found fulfillment in her roles both as a player and in the club's Community Trust. David noted how proud she was of her new house and that she appreciated the support from coaches like Carla Ward and Neil Redfearn. However, the situation took a turn when Morgan was appointed head coach in February 2022, which left Maddy feeling dismayed.

David emphasized Maddy's determination and commitment to football, describing her as someone who was driven and a professional. She graduated from the University of Derby with First-Class Honours and later worked in the marketing department at Sheffield United while continuing her football career.