Steve Clarke insists his decision to remain at Reading instead of taking the Fulham job was down to "ambition and professionalism" rather than money.
The Royals boss asked to speak to Fulham about their managerial vacancy and on Thursday was reported to be on the verge of replacing Kit Symons, who left Craven Cottage during this month's international break.
However, Clarke opted against the move and the 52-year-old believes his interests are better served at the Madejski Stadium.
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.
"When I sat down and weighed it up -- Reading was by far the best option," Clarke told a news conference on Friday.
"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."
Clarke will be back in the dugout at the Madejski Stadium 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," Clarke said.
"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 percent and now I want to get back to success on the pitch."
Clarke took over at Reading 11 months ago and last season secured their Championship status, while also leading the club to a first FA Cup semifinal for 88 years.
The Royals are currently eighth in the table, four places and as many points above Fulham, and only four points off the playoff positions.