Sheffield United has come under fire for their decision not to retire the number 8 shirt worn by their late women's player Maddy Cusack, with the club facing criticism for keeping the family in the dark about their choice.
A petition, which garnered 1,200 signatures, called for the retirement of Cusack's jersey to preserve her memory. However, The Athletic reports that Sheffield United not only dismissed this request but also failed to communicate their decision to Cusack's family. Rachel Iball, who initiated the petition, expressed her dismay, stating, "How can you be so disrespectful? I'm amazed the club could come to this decision when it (retiring Cusack's number) is what the fans want."
The controversy deepens as speculation suggests the club's decision may be connected to an official complaint filed by Cusack's parents, David and Deborah. Their grievances relate to their daughter's final seven months at the club, prompting an FA investigation into allegations that the 27-year-old's "irrepressible spirit" was broken by football.
Cusack, who made history as Sheffield United Women's longest-serving player and the first woman to achieve 100 appearances for the club, passed away at her home in Horsley, Derbyshire, on September 20, 2023. Police found no suspicious circumstances in what is believed to be a case of suicide. The revelations about her treatment at the Yorkshire club have raised questions about the extent of responsibility her former employers should bear, with former coach Jonathan Morgan facing particular scrutiny following the parents' complaints.
The club's stance on the jersey retirement has only intensified criticism. Nina Wilson, who played alongside Cusack, highlighted the exceptional nature of the situation, noting, "I can't help thinking that should the longest-serving player lose their life at any other club — while still playing there — the shirt would be retired immediately." The controversy has created a significant breach of trust that will require substantial effort to repair.
