Manny Pacquiao is looking for the 60th win of his professional career when he takes on Lucas Matthysse in July.

The Philipino great suffered defeat to Jeff Horn in his last outing in the ring in the summer of 2017, but he will be hoping to put that right when he makes his comeback.

It remains to be seen whether that will be with or without trainer Freddie Roach, who last week claimed that the eight-division champion had dismissed him without even letting him know.

"I would be lying if I didn't say I wasn't hurt that he didn't contact me personally about his decision, but the great times we enjoyed together far outweigh that," Roach said, per Sky Sports.

For many Pacquiao fans, the news that the pair would be splitting ways came as a surprise given the influential role the American has played in his career to date.

What is more, of course, it seemed very unlike the 39-year-old, so often held up as the epitome of sportsmanship and class, to treat his old mentor in a disrespectful manner.

However, while he is yet to confirm if Roach will continue in his corner, he has at least released a statement to appease some of the bad blood that threatened to circulate between them.

PACMAN HAS CLEARED THE AIR

"Contrary to statements which I personally did not make that are circulating in the media, I have not made my final decision who will be my head trainer for my July 14 fight with Matthysse," he wrote on Twitter.

"My advisor Mike Koncz has been in contact with Freddie's people to keep them informed. I will make a final decision within the week.

"When that decision is made, Freddie will be the first one to be informed and then I will advise the media."

In the initial press release announcing the fight with Matthysse, Pacquiao did not mention Roach, prompting the first speculation that they had severed ties.

Even so, the odds on Roach making a return still aren't great considering Pacquiao has not flat out denied the rumours.

Does Pacquiao owe it to Roach to stick by him? Have your say in the comments.