Maddy Cusack's family 'welcome' Sheffield United's decision to sack Jonathan Morgan amid FA investigation into tragic death of 27-year-old footballer

Morgan had sat out 11 of United's matches while Cusack's death was investigated by a third party for any wrongdoing. Her passing has not been treated as suspicious by police and Morgan returned to work in January. However, he was dismissed by United on Friday after admitting that he had been in a relationship with a player during his time at former club Leicester. Reacting to that news on Sunday, Cusack's family say they "welcome this development".

A statement on the Maddy Cusack Foundation's social media read: “On Friday afternoon, we learnt on social media of the departure of Jonathan Morgan. We as a family welcome this development. We would like to take this opportunity to say thank you for the unwavering loyalty, support and love shown to Maddy from football clubs from around the country and fans alike. We truly appreciate this.”

While Morgan was initially cleared by the third party, the Football Association (FA) confirmed last month that they have re-launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Cusack's passing. A coroner's inquest into the cause of death was adjourned in October. Morgan, meanwhile, stands accused of taking advantage of his former player as she claims he capitalised on her "immaturity" during their time at Leicester. She was 17 at the time while Morgan was in his late 20s.

While the FA's investigation continues, Morgan faces a lengthy spell out of football. As well as being let go by United, he was sacked by his agents Tongue Tied Management on the same day.