American Football: Stars give each other respect ahead of Superbowl clash

Quarterback Manning said: "I expect a tough defence. I expect it is going to be a challenge to try to move the ball against them.

"They have excellent players. They are very active. They know how to get their hands on the football.

"All those characteristics combined make it a tough defence. I think we are going to have our work cut out for us."

Both quarterbacks have been respectful of the other's talents in the build-up with Manning saying of opposite number Drew Brees: "He's unbelievably aggressive. You see him making throws that sometimes you say 'wow, I might not have thrown that ball' because it was tight. But he sticks it in the only place you could put it and I like that."

Brees said: "There are really so many things (that jump out about Manning) but I'd have to say his command of that offence and that huddle.

"It seems like no matter who they play in the (Colts' offence) they never stop, it doesn't skip a beat and obviously he's the guy who runs the show, he spreads it around and they're fun to watch.

"It's an impressive offence and he's one of the best of all time."

The Saints will be playing in the first Super Bowl in their 42-year history.

And Head Coach Sean Payton has earmarked Manning as their opponents' danger man.

He said: "He's a tremendous player. We've got a lot of respect for his accomplishments. It will be a tremendous challenge for us. We're going to have our work cut out, the way he's playing."