Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson has claimed that he is flattered by accusations that he is using performance-enhancing drugs.

Peterson returned from a potentially career-ending injury last season and went on to fall just nine yards short of breaking the NFL's all-time single season rushing yards record.

His quick recovery and subsequent MVP-winning performances led to speculation over whether he had taken illegal substances to aid his recovery, but Peterson believes that such accusations should be taken as a compliment.

"Seriously. Especially with the amount of work I put in. Guys say that to me, or if I hear someone saying that, it makes me feel good," Peterson told USA Today Sports.

"When you know you don't do it, and someone's saying you do, you're like, 'Wow. They think I'm on HGH? I'm doing that good? Well, hoo! Thank you, Jesus!' It's a compliment. I don't get mad about it at all."

Despite denying his own personal use of performance-enhancing drugs, Peterson did concede that he could understand why players would take them.

"People are trying to get the edge. The reality of it is, people are trying to provide for their families," he said.

"People are trying to keep their spot on the rosters. If it's something they can use that's not going to show up, they're going to use it."

Peterson has scored 76 rushing touchdowns and four receiving touchdowns in his 89 matches for the Vikings.