Maddy Cusack's family have welcomed the news that Sheffield United have parted ways with head coach Jonathan Morgan.
The Sheffield United Women's manager saw his contract terminated by the Blades after 'new information' came to light regarding the coach's conduct before joining the Bramall Lane side. Morgan was also dropped by his agency, Tongue Tied Management, who referenced an alleged relationship with a player who was under his charge.
The former Leicester and Burnley boss was at the centre of an investigation concerning Cusack's death, after the defender was found dead at her parents' home in September. In a letter to the club, Cusack's parents, David and Deborah, complained Morgan allegedly contributed to their daughter's deteriorating mental health before her death. Morgan vehemently denies the claims.
A third-party investigation commissioned by Sheffield United into Cusack's death cleared Morgan to return to work in December, concluding there were 'no suspicious circumstances'. The FA is currently gathering evidence after launching its own investigation.
Cusack's family released a short statement via their Maddy Cusack foundation page. In it they welcomed the news of Morgan's departure and expressed their thanks for the support they had received. It read: "On Friday afternoon, we learnt on social media of the departure of Jonathan Morgan. We as a family welcome this development.
Mum's heartbreak as 'best pal' daughter dies days after 'boozy birthday lunch'"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. 'This spirit I had so fiercely protected was allowed to be broken.' Fierce, determined & spirited."
Sheffield United said that latest information surrounding Morgan had left his position at the club untenable. He had been appointed in February 2023. A club statement on Friday read: "Sheffield United can confirm that Head Coach of Sheffield United Women's team, Jonathan Morgan, has departed the Club.
"Due to new information that has come to light within the last few days with regards to Mr Morgan's conduct before arriving at Bramall Lane, the Club has reached the conclusion that Mr Morgan's position is no longer tenable and his employment with the Club has been terminated.
"Luke Turner has agreed to take the role of interim Head Coach for the foreseeable future, including Sunday's Women's Championship fixture at Durham Women." Derby Coroner's Court opened an inquest into Cusack's death in October which has been adjourned as a coroner awaits further details about the cause of her death.