Morgan’s sacking by Blades welcomed by Cusack family

MADDY CUSACK’S family have spoken publicly for the first time since Jonathan Morgan was sacked as manager of Sheffield United Women — over a matter not connected to their daughter, after it emerged he had a relationship with a player at a previous club. Morgan has been at the centre of an investigation concerning the death of his former player, Cusack, after her family complained about his alleged behaviour towards her. Cusack’s family released a short statement on the Maddy Cusack Foundation page, saying: ‘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 around the country and fans alike. We truly appreciate this. ‘This spirit I had so fiercely protected was allowed to be broken. Fierce, determined and spirited.’ A third-party investigation conducted on behalf of the Blades found no evidence of wrongdoing and cleared Morgan (right) to return to work in December, after the family’s initial complaint about how Cusack was treated. But his sacking comes a week after

Mail Sport revealed the FA had opened a fresh inquiry into the circumstances around Cusack’s death. That investigation is ongoing. Yesterday, Sheffield United beat Durham 5-2 in their first League game since Morgan left. In the top flight, ARSENAL suffered a shock 2-1 defeat at WEST HAM as England’s Leah Williamson made her first start since last April. The defender was substituted at half-time, with her team leading 1-0 thanks to Alessia Russo’s goal. But the Hammers — who became the first side in WSL history to name a starting XI without an English player — hit back to boost their survival bid. Elsewhere, MANCHESTER UNITED beat BRIGHTON 2-0 and CHELSEA defeated EVERTON 3-0.