Sheffield United’s longest serving women’s player, Maddy Cusack, has tragically passed away at the age of 27.
Cusack, who was named vice-captain last month, had just started her sixth season with the team in the Women’s Championship after signing a new contract in July.
The 27-year-old also worked as a marketing manager at the club, with everyone involved at the club devastated by her death.
Tributes have already been paid to the popular 27-year-old, who tragically died on Wednesday.
But who was she? And who else did she play for? Mail Sport provides the answers below.
Sheffield United midfielder Maddy Cusack has died aged 27
The former talented midfielder had just started her sixth season with the club
Who was Maddy Cusack?
The former talented midfielder played for the likes of Birmingham City and Aston Villa before signing for Sheffield United in 2019.
Cusack joined the Blades midway through their first campaign in the women’s second tier in January 2019.
In February, Cusack became the first player to make 100 appearances for Sheffield United since they entered the Championship.
As mentioned, the former England youth international was the longest-serving player in their current squad.
She signed a new contract extension with the club in July. After agreeing to extend her stay at Sheffield United, Cusack said: “I think everyone knows how much I love this club. This club is my home.’
Cusack last played for the Blades on August 27 in a 1-1 draw against Charlton Athletic.
The 27-year-old did not feature for the club in their defeats to Sunderland and Blackburn Rovers, nor in their win over Lewes earlier this month.
As mentioned, Cusack also helped off the field, working as the club’s marketing manager.
Cusack, named vice-captain last month, had just started her sixth season with the Blades
What has been said?
Her heartbroken brother, Richard Cusack, paid tribute yesterday, tweeting: ‘My beautiful sister. May you rest in peace Maddy.’
A statement about the club official website read: ‘Sheffield United Football Club is devastated to report the sad news of the passing of Maddy Cusack.
Maddy, player of the women’s team since 2019 and marketing manager of the football club, passed away on Wednesday.
‘A respected player, Maddy, 27, reached the milestone of 100 appearances for Sheffield United Women last season.
“In addition, she was a valued colleague in the Bramall Lane office, moving from the Sheffield United Community Foundation to the club in 2021 to help bring all parts of the Blades to market.”
Her heartbroken brother, Richard Cusack, paid tribute yesterday, tweeting: ‘My beautiful sister. May you rest in peace Maddy.’
England women’s star Leah Williamson was among the players to post a message of support for X
England women’s captain Leah Williamson was among those to pay tribute to the Sheffield United star.
‘Sending all my love and condolences to Maddy’s family at this terrible time!’ Williamson wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Sue Campbell, the FA’s director of women’s football, said: ‘We are all devastated by the passing of Maddy Cusack. On behalf of the FA, the Lionesses, the Women’s Super League and the Women’s Championship, our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Maddy’s family, friends, teammates and everyone at Sheffield United.
“Maddy also represented England at age group level and we will pay tribute to her at an appropriate time. We are in contact with the club and will continue to offer them our full support at this incredibly sad time.”