Cusack's 'broken' team-mates speak out and pay tribute to their vice-captain

Maddy Cusack's Sheffield United team-mates have paid tribute to the midfielder after it was announced on Thursday that she had tragically passed away.

The 27-year-old, who was a popular figure among the team, had been named vice-captain of the side just last month.

She enjoyed spells at Birmingham City and Aston Villa before signing for the Blades who currently play in the Women's Championship in 2019.

Having spent six seasons with the Blades, Cusack became the first player to make 100 appearances for the women's side back in February and was the longest-serving player in their current squad.

A statement on the club's official website read: 'Sheffield United Football Club is devastated to report the sad news of the passing of Maddy Cusack.

'Maddy, a women's team player since January 2019 and marketing executive for the Football Club, passed away on Wednesday.

'A respected player, Maddy, 27, last season reached the milestone of 100 appearances for Sheffield United Women.

'Additionally, she was a valued colleague in the offices at Bramall Lane, moving over from the Sheffield United Community Foundation to the club in 2021 to help market all areas of the Blades.'

Tributes have been coming in for the Sheffield United midfielder, with her brother saying: 'My beautiful sister. May you rest in peace Maddy.'

Her Blades' team-mates have also been speaking on their colleague, with goalkeeper Beth Davies writing on Twitter that she was: 'Heartbroken.

'There aren't words to say how much you'll be missed, Mads,' she added.

Defender Molly Graham wrote: 'Absolutely devastating news. Such a great person and team-mate. You will be missed hugely! Rest in peace Mads.'

Cusack had also worked as a marketing executive with the Blades and had also