Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay and QB Peyton Manning out to mend tensed ties – NFL News
Indianapolis Colts’ owner, Jim Irsay, and quarterback, Peyton Manning, are out to mend their ties, which were on the edge following a week of tense statements from both sides.
Manning had expressed his frustration over departure of all managers and coaching staff, whom he had worked with during his decade-long stay at Colts, as a result of their firing by Irsay in the weeks following to the 2011 National Football League (NFL)
regular season.
The QB said that their sacking had reflected on the environment at Colts not being comfortable. He has also been tensed over the apparent silence by Irsay about his plans over Manning’s future at the team.
Jim Irsay strongly reacted to his remarks, saying that Manning should have been discussing all pertaining issues within the house, instead of playing a politician.
This prompted Peyton to clarify his situation. He said that his comments were not in intention of creating a public feud and that he believed in sorting out his issues within house.
Following the opposite statements, the owner and player have now come out in explanation of their positions and clear the situation.
In a joint statement released by the team management on Friday, January 27, 2012, they have attempted to refute the suggestions of a rift between them, saying they have a strong relationship based on mutual respect.
"We would like to dispel any misperception that there might be any hard feelings between us," the statement reads. "Since 1998, we have enjoyed a great relationship, based upon mutual respect and trust. We have always been able to talk and address matters
we've faced over the years, not just as owner and player, but as friends.”
They said:
"We had a long talk today and we want to assure Colts fans everywhere that we are both committed to maintaining our close relationship and to working together through any challenges the future may bring."
The statement has not touched the pertaining issue of Manning’s recovery from neck injury and his return to Colts next season.
Colts’ owner had earlier clarified that the final decision on Manning’s future will be down to his health. He said that the money was not an issue in weighing of his chances of return to the Indianapolis Colts.
The owner went on to say that the team management would take all the precautions to reach a decision on Manning, as health of the player was foremost priority for them. It will have long-term effects on the player’s life, he added.
Manning is likely to come up on the agenda of Colts in the future. Colts have hired new head coach, Chuck Pagano, who is expected to be upfront in seeking a solution to the issue of recovery and return of the quarterback.
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