Steve Sarkisian -- 'I'm Having a Difficult Time' ... But I Still Support USC

Steve Sarkisian is finally saying what we all know -- that he's having a "very difficult time" in the wake of being fired by USC ... but says he's not holding a grudge against the football team.

Sarkisian just issued his first public statement about the termination ... via Twitter ... saying, "This is a very difficult time for my family and me. I am facing these challenges the best I can and your support helps immensely."

He continued, "I wish my Trojans the best against Notre Dame and for the remainder of the season. No one will be cheering them on more than me. Fight On!"

It's interesting ... considering just yesterday USC athletic director Pat Haden said he hadn't heard a peep from Sarkisian since he put him on a leave of absence on Sunday.