SACKED coach Branko Culina insists the Newcastle Jets are a ''bloody good team'' and has offered to help interim coach Craig Deans any way he can.

Breaking his silence, Culina said he had faith in the squad and was saddened to not be in charge for the opening game against Melbourne Heart at Ausgrid Stadium on Saturday.

Saddened ... former Jets coach Branko Culina. Credit:Jonathan Carroll

''I know they will do well,'' he told the Herald last night. ''I wish the players and staff every success because I know how much time and effort has gone into the preparation. That is why I am so sad not to be a part of it. They have a good team, a bloody good team, which has been well prepared by good people.''

Culina said he had received several messages of support from members of the team, coaches and medical staff. He had not heard from Deans, but extended an olive branch if the youth team mentor needed advice.