Sheffield United midfielder Maddy Cusack has sadly passed away aged 27, leaving the Yorkshire club ‘devastated’ by their loss.
Cusack was the first player to reach 100 appearances for Sheffield United’s women’s side last season, having joined the Blades in 2019.
Alongside her duties on the pitch, Maddy also worked as a marketing executive for the club, who have released a statement saying that they are ‘devastated’ by her passing.
Cusack previously played in England’s youth side, as well as for Nottingham Forest, Aston Villa, and Birmingham City – all who have paid tribute to the star following her untimely death.
Sheffield United chief executive officer, Stephen Bettis, said “This is heartbreaking news for everyone at Bramall Lane”.
“Maddy had a unique position of being part of a number of teams at Sheffield United and was popular with everyone that she came into contact with.
“Her personality and professionalism made her a credit to her family – she will be sadly missed.
“Whilst taking in the news and moving forward, the club will offer as much support as possible to Maddy’s family, friends and colleagues.”
Sheffield United Football Club is devastated to report the sad news of the passing of Maddy Cusack.
The Club and Maddy’s family would appreciate a period of privacy and will not comment further at this sad time.
— Sheffield United (@SheffieldUnited) September 21, 2023
Many more have joined Bettis in paying tribute to the 27-year-old, including Baroness Sue Campbell, the Football Association’s director of Women’s Football.
Campbell said of Cusack’s passing that the FA are in contact with Sheffield United and offering them support at this “incredibly sad time”.
“On behalf of the FA, the Lionesses, the Women’s Super League and the Women’s Championship, our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Maddy’s family, friends, team-mates and everyone at Sheffield United,”
Sheffield United men’s captain Billy Sharp, as well as Maddy’s brother, Richard Cusack are amongst scores of others who have made heartbreaking tributes to the young star.
We join Maddy’s family, Sheffield United, and the football world at large in remembering a fantastic young influence on the game and on those who knew her.
