Mark Sanchez: 'Pete Carroll is a good friend of mine'

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Mark Sanchez has stated that there are no hard feelings between Seattle Seahawks coach Pete Carroll and himself.

The pair were player and coach at college as part of a successful USC team, though Carroll blasted Sanchez's decision to quit school to enter the NFL Draft in 2009.

When the rift emerged, Carroll was criticised in some quarters for a lack of professionalism towards the young hopeful.

However, the Eagles signal caller insisted that the episode is in the past now, and that he actually considers Carroll a good friend.

Sanchez told The Philadelphia Daily News: "Pete's great. He texted me during pre-season saying 'you're doing awesome, so happy to see you back, having fun' and that means the world to me.

"He's definitely somebody I really respect. I had so much fun playing for him and it'll be good to see him again.

"He's a really good coach and a good friend."

Sunday's game will be the second time the pair have met in the NFL, with Carroll's Seahawks demolishing Sanchez's New York Jets three seasons ago.