JAAP STAM says he rejected advances to take over as Leeds United boss in order to stay at Reading.
The Dutchman was again linked with a move to Elland Road this week after Leeds sacked manager Thomas Christiansen, who only arrived in the summer.
They opted for Paul Heckingbottom as his replacement, but Stam says he has been on their shortlist.
“I haven’t spoken to Leeds myself,” said the Royals boss.
“Last season I knew they were very interested in getting me and then I made the decision to stay here because I still felt there were a lot of nice things to do over here with the new owners coming in.
“That’s why I made the decision to stay.
“I know from last season the manager (Christiansen) has gone out and they brought a new one in and I was on that list as well, but that’s how it goes sometimes.”
Pressure is continuing to build on Stam’s future as Reading boss after the Royals suffered a fourth straight home league defeat on Saturday, going down 2-0 to Millwall.
But the Dutchman, who penned a new deal until 2019 back in July, says he is not fazed by the criticism.
“To be honest, I don’t pay any notice to the fans,” said Stam.
“Even last season when we were doing well, the fans were negative. There’s nothing new
about that.
“Nobody is happy with the situation but the fans need to understand that if the players feel (more) comfortable playing outside of your own stadium than at home, then I think it’s the wrong signal that they’re giving.
“They can be negative to me, but I think you need to support your players.”
“Everybody knows how it goes if you’re not winning games then people are looking at me. I’m not the only one working here at the club but that’s how it goes.
“I don’t mind that. I’ve dealt with a lot of pressure in my career. I’m not really noticing it.
He added: “It’s difficult for me to take defeats.
“I want to win every game and by not having results I feel very disappointed.
“I’m the first one to look at myself first in what I’m doing, how I’m working, do I bring enough, am I clear enough to the group and do they understand what I want from them?
“I look at myself first and then we talk with the team.”
