“I don’t think he knows the commissioner and Mr. Kraft very well” – Seahawks coach Pete Carroll, on CB Richard Sherman believing there is a conflict of interest in the Deflategate probe due to the friendship between NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and Patriots Owner Robert Kraft (Mult., 1/26).
“When you finally leave, you realize, ‘Wow, I found my voice. I do have an opinion’” – Saints TE Ben Watson, who played for the Patriots from ’04-09, saying that Bill Belichick uses an underlying layer of intimidation to keep players from dissenting (ESPNBOSTON.com, 1/26).
“I have not indicated interest nor had any discussions pertaining to the purchase of Aston Villa or any other club” – Seahawks and Trail Blazers Owner Paul Allen, on speculation that he was in talks with Randy Lerner to buy the EPL club (BIRMINGHAM MAIL, 1/27).
“I have no problem saying that I would like to play in the U.S.” – Real Madrid G Iker Casillas, on having an interest in playing in MLS (WALL STREET JOURNAL, 1/27).
“If it comes to the point where a strike would have to happen to get what we want, then I think we’re all ready and prepared. It’s not what we want … however, this is a very principled, strong stance that we have right now” – Fire MF and MLSPU player rep Jeff Larentowicz (CHICAGOTRIBUNE.com, 1/26).
