Seattle Seahawks' running-back Marshawn Lynch has revealed he was expecting the ball on their final offensive play of the Super Bowl XLIX loss to the New England Patriots.
The Seahawks were within a yard of defending their Super Bowl title with 26 seconds remaining in Arizona, but instead of handing the ball to Lynch, Seattle opted to throw a pass - which was intercepted - giving the Patriots a 28-24 win.
Much has been made of the decision by offensive co-ordinator Darrell Bevell and Lynch, whose rocky relationship with the American media has landed him in hot water in the past, has broken his silence on the matter.
Speaking to Turkish television station NTV Spor, Lynch said: "To be honest with you, I would be lying if I didn't tell you that I was expecting the ball.
"Yes, I was expecting the ball. But in life, these things happen. Like I told a reporter after the game, it's a team sport.
"I had no problem with the decision of the playcalling. I mean, you know ... I think it was more of a ... how do I say this? When you look at me, and you let me run that ball in ... I am the face of the nation. You know, MVP [Most Valuable Player] of the Super Bowl ... that's pretty much the face of the nation at that point of time.
"I don't know what went into that call. I mean, maybe it was a good thing that I didn't get the ball.
"I mean, you know, it cost us the Super Bowl. I mean, I have full ... I have full confidence in my teammates to execute that plan because we've done it so many more times.
"But would I love to had the ball in? Yes, I would have. But the game is over, and I am in Turkey."
Speculation has been rife as to whether Lynch - rumoured to have considered retirement - will return next season, but he refused to discuss the issue. The 28-year-old had 1,673 yards from scrimmage in 2014 and scored 17 total touchdowns.