Reporting note: this article draws on The Guardian; PGLive provides the summary and editorial framing.
Inquest Proceedings
The inquest into the death of Sheffield United midfielder Maddy Cusack, who passed away on September 20, 2023, at age 27, continued this week at Chesterfield coroner’s court. Former manager Jonathan Morgan provided testimony regarding his professional relationship with the player, addressing claims made during a separate Football Association (FA) investigation.
FA Investigation Testimony
During the hearing, it was revealed that in a May 2024 interview with the FA, Morgan described Cusack as “generally a liar.” When questioned about this statement in court, Morgan defended his remarks, alleging that Cusack had omitted information regarding his support for her when speaking to her family. He further stated that he had been influenced by “one-sided information” circulating in the media following her death.
Managerial Relationship and Performance
Morgan, who previously coached Cusack at Leicester City, denied allegations that he had shouted at her or used derogatory language. He addressed several specific points of contention raised by the family’s legal representative, Dean Armstrong KC:
- Selection Decisions: Morgan maintained that his decision to leave Cusack out of the starting lineup upon his arrival at Sheffield United was based on medical advice from the team’s physiotherapist, Francesca Carr, regarding an existing injury.
- Playing Style: He explained that his high-pressing tactical approach required different physical attributes than those Cusack initially displayed, though he noted her improvement over the course of the 2023 season.
- Professional Conduct: Morgan denied claims of humiliation, including allegations that he mocked her relationship with teammate Grace Riglar. He characterized a comment made to the pair as “banter.”
Context and Ongoing Inquest
The court heard that medical records for Cusack were unavailable due to a failure in the club’s record-keeping systems. Morgan also testified that he had expressed concern for Cusack’s wellbeing in August 2023, noting a change in her personal presentation and reports from staff regarding her personal life. The inquest is scheduled to conclude this Friday, with Morgan’s testimony expected to resume on Tuesday.
If you are affected by the themes in this report, support is available. In the UK and Ireland, contact Samaritans at 116 123. In the US, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. In Australia, contact Lifeline at 13 11 14.
A single, worn training bib remained folded on the edge of the locker room bench.
