SIR John Madjeski was disappointed but optimistic after the final whistle at Wembley, writes Lee Irving.

The Reading FC co-chairman had watched the agonising Championship play-off final in the company of the club’s new Chinese owners, and said they, too, were upset at the bitter outcome.

“I’m very disappointed, but we have been here before, it’s the third time we have lost at Wembley and fourth time in a play-off final," stated 78-year-old Madejski.

“It’s very, very sad and I feel so disappointed. I feel sorry for the players, the manager, the staff and the fans, but someone had to win and someone and had to lose and that’s football.”

Madejski has witnessed Royals fall at the final play-off hurdle four times following Monday's defeat to Huddersfield Town on penalties.

And although hopes of playing in the top flight have been extinguished for now, he said the team’s performance over the season had given him hope for the future, and praised boss Jaap Stam for the vital role he played.

Madejski also admitted he hopes Stam will still be at the helm for another crack at promotion next season.

But there is some degree of uncertainty over Stam's future and the club are yet to open talks over extending his contract beyond summer 2018.

Sir John declared: “There’s an awful lot to be pleased about this season, and an awful lot to build on for next season.

“It’s been a great season really, and we can build on it in the future.

“I hope Jaap Stam will be here next season.

"Every manager wants success and I hope he will sit down and think what he can achieve here in Berkshire. He has done a fantastic job, as have the players."

Reading Chronicle:

Jaap Stam consoles Jordan Obita at the final whistle at Wembley on Monday.

He continued: “We have all been here before. When you have lose in a play off final four times you kind of get used to it.

“My heart goes out to each and every one of them (the players) but they will live to fight another day. Penalties are so cruel.

“I was thinking during the game, how absurd it was that we had finished third but we still had to go through this extraordinary time.”

Sir John also praised the legions of Royals supporters who had flocked to the capital to back their side.

“The fans are fantastic,” he said. “They came here in their thousands and supported their club right up to the end.

"Don’t forget that there are some fans who prefer Championship football, so we all live to fight another day.

“They will be here next season, and let’s hope we can carry on and maybe go up next season as champions.”