Former Indianapolis Colts head coach Tony Dungy has admitted that he was "surprised" by owner Jim Irsay's comments regarding Peyton Manning.

Manning's unbeaten Denver Broncos side are due to face the Colts this Sunday, marking the first time that the quarterback has returned to Lucas Oil Stadium since his 14-year stint in Indianapolis ended last year.

Despite Manning still being regarded as a legend at the Colts, owner Jim Irsay recently revealed that he let the 37-year-old go in order to win more Super Bowls than the one he brought them.

Dungy believes that the comments were intended to rile Manning in the build-up to the game in an attempt to have an impact on his performance.

"Jim is making this personal. I'm surprised. I think that's what he's trying to do. Have him make it such a big game he doesn't perform well. I can't figure any other reason to go this way," Dungy told ESPN.

"Without Peyton, there would be no Lucas Oil Stadium. This team would be playing in L.A. right now. I don't understand Jim saying this."

Manning was voted to 11 Pro Bowls and named the NFL MVP four times during his successful spell with the Colts.