Robert Saleh breaks his silence after Jets firing

Robert Saleh has broken his silence after his shock firing as New York Jets head coach on Tuesday.

Saleh was relieved of his duties by Jets owner Woody Johnson two days on from the team's 23-17 loss to the Minnesota Vikings in London, which followed a dismal home defeat to the Denver Broncos on September 29.

The astonishing decision marks the first time Johnson has parted company with a head coach mid-season in his 25 years as owner.

Saleh said in a statement 24 hours after leaving the Jets: 'To the Jets Organization, I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work with so many incredible people. I will always be appreciative of the love and support from everyone at 1 Jets Drive.

'To all of the players, I truly love and appreciate every single one of you. The character of the men in the locker room made coaching you guys the ultimate privilege. Through all the ups and downs, each and every one of you showed up everyday and attacked every moment. 

'To my fellow coaches and staff, it has been an honor to work with all of you. Every one of you were “all in” and made sacrifices for one another that will never be forgotten. I wish you all the very best of luck for the remainder of the season.

'To the most passionate fan base in the NFL, thank you for embracing my family. It has been a pleasure calling New York our home and we will forever appreciate all of the memories that were created here. With Love and Regard, All Gas No Brake!!!'

More to follow.