A former captain of Sheffield United's women's team has told an inquest that she believes Maddy Cusack's girlfriend moving to a different football club was the primary cause of her mental health decline. Sophie Barker, who captained the team at the time, stated at Chesterfield Coroner's Court that Cusack was 'infatuated' with her girlfriend, Grace Riglar, and was deeply affected by her departure.
Maddy Cusack, 27, was found unconscious by her father at their family home in Horsley, Derbyshire, on 20 September 2023, and died the same day. Barker testified on Wednesday, 10 July 2026, saying she told Cusack's family that 'Maddy would still be here' if Riglar had remained local. She explained that Cusack felt 'anxious' and believed Riglar was leaving her, requiring reassurance that the move did not signify a breakup.
The inquest has also heard complaints from Cusack's family regarding the conduct of the team's head coach, Jonathan Morgan, and an alleged lack of support from the club. Dean Armstrong KC, representing the family, suggested to Barker that Morgan's behaviour and insufficient club support were the main factors in Cusack's deteriorating mental health. However, Barker maintained her belief that Riglar's move was the key reason.
Barker did acknowledge that Cusack had expressed anxiety about Morgan joining United in February 2023, citing unprofessional behaviour and unfulfilled promises from their previous time together at Leicester City. Despite this, Barker stated that Cusack did not discuss issues related to Morgan with her further. Barker also observed a change in Cusack's demeanour in June 2023, noting she became 'quieter' and 'more reserved', a stark contrast to her previously 'bubbly' personality.
Francesca Carr, then head physiotherapist for United's women's team, also gave evidence, stating she did not have significant concerns about Cusack's mental health compared to other players. However, Carr did recall Cusack bursting into tears over going to the wrong training ground, describing it as an 'excessive' and unusual emotional reaction. The inquest had previously heard that Cusack felt Morgan's decision to not include her in the starting line-up for matches was a 'personal attack'. Morgan, representing himself, questioned Carr if the decision not to play Cusack in his first competitive game was due to an ankle injury and in her 'best interests', to which Carr agreed.