Sheffield United coach Jonathan Morgan testified at the Chesterfield Coroner's Court on 7 July 2026 that he had actively supported midfielder Maddy Cusack, describing herself as “really happy” to stay with the club after a full‑time contract was offered.

What did the coach say at the inquest?

Morgan, former manager of United’s women’s side, told the inquest he “put everyone first” during a period when the team was battling relegation. He recalled that Cusack, 27, was found unresponsive at her home in Horsley, Derbyshire, on 20 September 2023, and that his comments about her weight and relationship had been raised by her family in a written complaint to the club.

How did the club support Cusack?

The coach explained he improved Cusack’s training programme and helped her keep a part‑time marketing role within the club. He said, “I provided her with as much money in the contract as I was able to within the budget,” and that he wanted her in the senior leadership team, even naming her vice‑captain. He added that the club tried to balance her football duties with her marketing job, a clash that made the full‑time switch difficult.

What does this mean for Sheffield United?

Morgan admitted the squad had won only one of ten games when he arrived in February 2023, creating a “tough time” for everyone. He claimed Cusack was “massively stressed” by the pressure, yet he believed both of them shared the goal of keeping United up. The coach’s testimony suggests the club attempted to address player welfare, but the inquest will decide whether those efforts were sufficient.

Next steps for the investigation?

The coroner’s court will continue hearing evidence about the circumstances surrounding Cusack’s death, including the family’s complaint and Morgan’s self‑representation. If the inquest finds negligence, United could face scrutiny over its player‑support policies. For now, the club says it remains committed to improving mental‑health resources for all members of staff and squad.

The inquest, still ongoing, will determine whether the support described by Morgan meets the standards expected of a Championship side fighting to stay in the league.