Michigan football 2014: Brady Hoke

Michigan head coach Brady Hoke released a statement Sunday night regarding the way Shane Morris' injury was handled Saturday afternoon against Minnesota.

(Melanie Maxwell | MLive.com)

ANN ARBOR -- Michigan football coach Brady Hoke released a statement, through the athletic department, to reporters Sunday night regarding quarterback Shane Morris' injury situation in Saturday's 30-14 loss against Minnesota.

Morris, who appeared to have injured his ankle in the second half of Saturday's game, was left in the contest after a violent hit near his head sent him to the turf.

He then stood up, still limping, appearing wobbly and woozy. He then appeared to stumble into the arms of teammate Ben Braden before staying in the game for another snap.

Morris was removed one play later, but then re-entered the game two plays later when Devin Gardner was forced -- by rule -- to the sidelines after losing his helmet during a play.

Hoke's statement reads as follows:

“The safety of our student-athletes is always our top priority. We generally never discuss the specifics of a student-athlete's medical care, but Shane Morris was removed from yesterday’s game against Minnesota after further aggravating an injury to his leg that he sustained earlier in the contest. He was evaluated by our experienced athletic trainers and team physicians, and we're confident proper medical decisions were made. The University of Michigan has a distinguished group of Certified Athletic Trainers and team physicians who are responsible for determining whether or not a player is physically able to play. Our coaches have no influence or authority to make determinations if or when an injured player returns to competition. The health and welfare of our student-athletes is and will continue to be a top priority.”

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