Maddy Cusack: FA to 'assess relevant information' around Sheffield United player's death as family's seven-page complaint comes to light

Cusack died at the age of 27 in September last year. An inquest into her death was opened and adjourned the following month, while Sheffield United launched an external investigation. In December, it was announced that the investigation found no evidence of wrongdoing by anyone connected with the club, but the FA will now be conducting their own review.

As per The Guardian, an official statement from an FA Spokesperson read: “We were devastated to learn of the passing of Maddy Cusack last September and our thoughts continue to be with her family and loved ones at this very difficult time. Following the conclusion of the club’s independent investigation into the matter, we felt that it would be appropriate to assess the relevant information of the case. This is to understand whether or not any further action is required under our jurisdiction within football, and to establish what, if any, next steps may be appropriate. We are in dialogue with Maddy’s family and the club during this process.”

The FA's statement comes after The Athletic reported the details of the seven-page complaint filed by Cusack's family after her death.The report includes a wide range of grievances from Cusack's last seven months with the club, coinciding with Jonathan Morgan's appointment as head coach. Morgan stepped away from his role while the independent investigation took place in October, but returned to work earlier this month.

Cusack was the first women's player to reach 100 appearances for Sheffield United, having initially joined the club in 2019. Tributes took place at football grounds across the country after her tragic death, including at Sheffield United men's games and England's fixture against Scotland.