Minnesota Vikings coach Leslie Frazier has insisted that quarterback Christian Ponder still has a "bright future" with the franchise.
Ponder came under heavy criticism after the Vikings lost their opening three games of the season, and his role in the side was further called into question when Matt Cassel led them to their first win of the campaign against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Wembley last Sunday.
The Vikings then brought Josh Freeman to the franchise after he was released by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, casting Ponder's starting status into serious doubt.
However, Frazier insists that the 25-year-old is still in his plans.
"I think Christian still has a bright future here with our football team," Frazier told reporters. "It may not look like that on the surface, but Christian is a professional.
"He's going to work as hard as he can every day to prepare and get back on the field and help our team win."
Ponder is currently suffering from a rib injury but is hopeful that he will be fit enough to face the Carolina Panthers on Sunday.
Barney Corkhill
