Shortly after full-time the news broke that Reading FC manager Vejko Paunovic has departed the club. Minutes later, he came out to give one final press conference to the media. Every word of that can be found below...

On the decision to part ways: It was already done before the game. Th club and I parted ways - we believe it’s best for the club. The statement pretty much reflects everything. It came to the point where it was best for the club - I’m pretty self-aware of the things that are happening and the negativity that was surrounding me. I never thought that was fair but I also don’t think at this point the team needs that.

I am completely unselfish in this decision. I want the team to excel, I want the team to get back, all I want is the best for the club. I really have a huge respect for the opportunity, for the time I’ve spent with the club, for Mr. Dai Yongge and everyone from our board, our people within the club, our support staff, everyone working behind the scenes. Day in day out they give me support and give the team everything to compete and play like we did today. Therefore I just wanted to do the best for the club.

We got an agreement from everyone and I expect that now everyone aligns with the new manager, supports the team, does what is needed. We did huge sacrifices so far and I think that must be paid, that must be converted in salvation this year for the club and the team. And as a potential resurrection going forward in the next 50 years hopefully. Another brighter 50 and 150.

On the timing, coming right after a win: We knew coming into the game that this was going to happen so there was no going happen. It was contemplated before, whatever happens, it’s still the best. I don’t think that this win would change much with the negativity I was surrounded (by) so that’s why I think it’s best for the club to find somebody that everybody will support.

On the personal struggles of the last few months: It’s not pleasant, definitely. But it’s part of football and you’ve got to take it.

On the players’ reaction to the news: Quiet. You should ask them for their opinion. But as always when I work with a group of young players, being a former player helps me empathise and understand their problems. When we agree and when we don’t agree, when we have success and don’t have success what’s always prevailed is mutual respect, professionalism and support.

On Covid, the points deduction and all the difficult circumstances over the last 18 months: The most important thing is that all that is behind. I think the team is now much better prepared, I think there are many more options, I think this win helps with confidence. And I hope this is a great timing for the team to rise back and realign the whole culture and tradition the club has.

On going out with a win: Today was another day where we gave our best. Fortunately, today our best was enough to win. And to get the three points. It’s a big statement from the team. We have our strengths and weaknesses. When we are capable of minimising individual mistakes I think we can beat any team. And that’s a strength and something that I believe has to get better.

On how he looks back at his tenure: I’m proud of accomplishing and being in line with what I said on the first day: that I’m going to give my best. And therefore this is my best, given all the circumstances there’s nothing else to say.