Jokanovic: The best team lost

Slavisa Jokanovic insisted he is proud of Fulham’s achievements this season and that the better team lost in their play-off semi-final with Reading.

Yann Kermorgant’s second-half penalty took the Royals to Wembley and crushed Fulham’s hopes of a return to the top flight.

Whites boss Jokanovic questioned referee Martin Atkinson’s decision to award the spot-kick for Tomas Kalas’ handball.

“We were the best team, we played the best football, but we’re not going to play the final. The best team lost,” Jokanovic said.

“Reading scored two goals (in the tie), both after some complicated decisions. There was a push in the box (for Kalas’ handball).

“This is the best English referee – an international referee – so I cannot complain. But we are really disappointed not to be in the final after this kind of decision.

“On the other hand I am proud of my team and how they played all season. We created many chances tonight but weren’t clinical enough.”