By Ollie Ritchie
Superbowl-winning quarterback Peyton Manning's suddenly on defence after being accused of doping.
He's one of several high-profile athletes named in a television documentary on performance-enhancing drugs.
Manning has rubbished the report and is trying to clear his name.
An Al Jazeera documentary claims the five-time MVP used human growth hormone while recovering from neck surgery in 2011 when he played for Indianapolis.
"It stings me," Manning said. "Whoever this guy is, insinuating that I cut corners to get healthy – it's a joke. It's a friggin' joke."
In the report, a former employee of Indiana medical facility The Guyer Institute named Charlie Sly claims Manning was being sent drugs. He also alleges Manning made after-hours visits with his wife, which Manning denies.
"I was there during normal business hours, at 9am eastern."
Boxer Mike Tyson's amongst a number of American athletes also named in the report.
But as the NFL's all-time touchdown and passing yards record holder, Manning is copping the heat.
"I know what I've done; I know how hard I've worked during my 18 years in the NFL," he said. "There are no shortcuts."
His old team is standing by him. The Indianapolis Colts have labelled the allegations "utterly ridiculous".
"It's absurd to suggest he would've taken prohibited performance-enhancing drugs," a spokesperson said.
It has led to Sly backing down from his claims.
In the meantime, Manning's focus returns to football.
Manning's in doubt for tomorrow's game against the Cincinnati Bengals with an injured foot, but the accusations mean he'll remain the centre of attention.
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