Reading manager Steve Clarke reveals why he pulled the plug on Fulham talks

Steve Clarke pulled the plug on talks with Fulham because he felt staying in charge of Reading was the better option 'by a mile'.

The Royals manager was given permission to speak to the Whites about replacing Kit Symons as manager and looked certain to take the job.

But after exploring the setup at Craven Cottage, Clarke opted not to continue discussions with the west Londoners and now intends to see out his contract at the Madejski Stadium.

He said this morning: “I’m here for the rest of my contract I hope. It’s been a strange week but I know I made the right decision.

“I understand the anger among supporters, but when someone is prepared to pay money to speak to me, it’s something as a professional I have to look at.

“You have to go and find out what their plans are and what they are thinking. Could they offer something better and the answer was no.

“I went to Fulham and decided what I had here was better for me. It wasn’t about money - it was about ambition and professionalism. I didn’t want to think what if.

“What I have here is more mind blowing. I’m happy with what I have here. This was the best option by a mile - to stay here.

“All I wanted was the chance to speak to another club and weigh up what is best for me. I believe I still have support 100% and now I want to get back to success on the pitch.”

Reading supporters have been far from impressed with the Scotsman’s pursuit of the Fulham position but Clarke believes the board and players remain behind him in Berkshire.

He added: “I have good support from above, a good set of players and we all want success.

“The club have already shown they are with me. I had a good chat with the board last night.

“I’m not going to say everything is fine as they are a bit disappointed with the way things turned out this week, but it’s no problem now.”

“The fans reaction - you want to be liked. The supporters are the most loyal people in football.

“I’ve explained why I went to talk to Fulham. I’ve had good support from the fans, since I’ve made the decision to stay they are happy.

“Hopefully among the anger they can realise I’ve made a decision to stay and get to the Premier League. That’s what everyone wants.”

Clarke’s decision means Fulham will have to go back to the drawing board in their search for Kit Symons’ replacement and Alan Curbishley will be in the dugout for Saturday’s trip to MK Dons.

Former Leicester boss Nigel Pearson, Exeter’s Paul Tisdale and Walsall manager Dean Smith are thought to remain in consideration for the role.