Manning denies he used HGH

Broncos QB denies

HGH sent to his wife

Associated Press

ENGLEWOOD, Colo.

Peyton Manning said a report by Al Jazeera that aired Sunday suggesting he obtained performance-enhancing drugs was “completely fabricated, complete trash, garbage.”

Manning angrily denied allegations to ESPN on Sunday morning he used HGH in 2011.

The report is based on secret recordings made by a former intern at an Indianapolis anti-aging institute who now says he fabricated the allegations.

Al Jazeera sent British hurdler Liam Collins undercover to expose performance-enhancing drug use in sports. Collins made secret recordings of Charles Sly, a former intern at the Guyer Institute, where Manning was treated in 2011 following four neck surgeries.

Sly has recanted the claim that Manning used HGH. Sly, who also named other high-profile athletes on the secret recordings, told Al Jazeera the statements attributed to him “are absolutely false and incorrect.” Sly told ESPN that he fabricated the allegations to test Collins’ legitimacy.

Manning denied ever using PEDs and blasted the report for suggesting he got drugs that were shipped to his wife, Ashley.

“I can’t speak for any other athlete. I know what I’ve done, I know how hard I’ve worked in my 18 years of playing in the NFL. There are no shortcuts in the NFL. I’ve done it the long way, I’ve done it the hard way. And to insinuate anything otherwise is a complete and total joke, it’s defamation and it really ticks me off,” Manning told ESPN.

The Broncos and Colts also issued statements Sunday morning in support of Manning.

“Knowing Peyton Manning and everything he stands for, the Denver Broncos support him 100 percent,” the team said. “These are false claims made to Al Jazeera, and we don’t believe the report.”

The Colts, whom Manning played for from 1998-2011, issued a statement calling the report “utterly ridiculous.”

“We are thoroughly familiar with Peyton’s tireless work habits, his medical history, and, most importantly, his integrity,” the Colts said.

“We also note that the ‘source’ of this allegation has since recanted his story.”

Manning joined the Broncos in 2012 and had a record-setting run, going 47-15 until he tore the plantar fascia in his left foot on Nov. 15. That was the same day he broke Brett Favre’s NFL record for most career passing yards.

He’s been sidelined ever since, and backup Brock Osweiler will make his sixth straight start Monday night when the Broncos (10-2) host the Bengals (11-3).

“Throughout his NFL career, particularly during his four seasons with the Broncos, Peyton has shown nothing but respect for the game,” the Broncos said. “Our organization is confident Peyton does things the right way, and we do not find this story to be credible.”