Steve Clarke insists “ambition and professionalism” was behind Reading stay, not money

Reading manager Steve Clarke insists his decision to remain at the Madejski Stadium instead of taking the Fulham job was down to ‘ambition and professionalism’ and not money.

The Scot was thought to be on the verge of replacing Kit Symons, who left Craven Cottage during this month's international break, after being given permission to speak to Fulham about becoming their new manager.

However, Clarke opted against the move and the 52-year-old has revealed he did so because he believes his interests are better served with the Royals.

"When I sat down and weighed it up - Reading was by far the best option," Clarke told a press conference on Friday morning.

"All I wanted was the chance to speak to another club and weigh up what is best for me. In my mind I was always closer to Reading than Fulham.

"But 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.

"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.

"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."

For Fulham, it is back to the drawing board in their search for a new manager and former Charlton boss Alan Curbishley will be in charge for the trip to MK Dons on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Clarke will be back in the dugout at the Madejski for the visit of Bolton on Saturday and he knows he now has some hurdles to overcome with the club's supporters - and the board.

"I understand the angst and 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.

"The supporters are the most loyal people at the football club. I can understand the ones that were really angry.

"I've had a chat with the board. I'm not going to say everything is fine - it isn't, they are a bit disappointed.

"But I believe I still have support 100 per cent and now I want to get back to success on the pitch."