Former Sheffield United women's captain Maddy Cusack died aged 27 after being found unconscious at her family home in Horsley, Derbyshire last September. The inquest at Chesterfield Coroner's Court heard teammate Sophie Barker testify that Cusack's girlfriend Grace Riglar moving away was the primary factor behind her declining mental health.

Barker told the hearing she believed Cusack would still be alive if Riglar had remained local, explaining that Cusack felt abandoned when she learned of the transfer. The player had described feeling "infatuated" with Riglar and needed reassurance that the move didn't signal a relationship breakdown. Cusack's family had raised concerns about head coach Jonathan Morgan's conduct.

Evidence revealed Cusack became increasingly withdrawn from June 2023 onward, described as a "completely different person" compared to her previously bubbly character. Former physiotherapist Francesca Carr noted Cusack's emotional reactions, including crying when arriving at the wrong training ground, which she recognized as concerning signs. The inquest continues with Morgan defending his decisions as being in Cusack's best interests due to injury concerns.

The testimony highlights the complex intersection of personal relationships, professional pressures, and mental health support in women's football. It raises questions about how clubs identify and respond to players experiencing difficulties beyond physical injuries.