What started as a convivial festive drink ended, as so often at this time of the year, in tears. Less than 24 hours later, Brendan Rodgers, the Reading manager, became the former manager, after only six months in the job.

Rodgers, his players and officials, including Sir John Madejski, the chairman, had attended the club’s Christmas party at the Jazz Café at the Madejski Stadium on Tuesday night. By all accounts, a good time was had by all.

Yet matters turned sour the next day. Rodgers and Madejski would appear to have had a difference of opinion, believed to be about the transfer funds — or lack of — available in next month’s transfer window, and they parted company by mutual consent.

Madejski played down reports of a row. “Parting with Brendan was one of the hardest things I have ever had to do,” he said yesterday. “He was a really decent guy and we got on incredibly well on a personal basis. Suggestions of a row are ridiculous. We have never had an argument. The parting was amicable.

“Brendan was philosophical. He knows what the score is and I am sure we will remain on good terms. But this is a results business and, in football, you live and die by the sword. We felt that one place off the relegation zone, with the squad we have, was not good enough.”

Rodgers left Watford in June — a case, in hindsight, of out of the frying pan and into the fire. It is believed that he has reached a compromise agreement with Madejski over a possible £1 million payout for the remaining term of his three-year contract.

Darren Ferguson, the former Peterborough United manager, is favourite to replace Rodgers, but the club refused Madejski permission to approach Ferguson when Steve Coppell left the Berkshire club last summer. Gareth Southgate and Lawrie Sanchez are also candidates.

Brian McDermott, the chief scout, is in charge of the team for the Coca-Cola Championship match against Bristol City at Ashton Gate tomorrow.