Diego Forlan's goal four minutes from the end of extra-time gave Atletico Madrid a 2-1 win and consigned Hodgson to a second final defeat in the competition, 13 years on from the loss he suffered in charge of Inter Milan, on penalties to Schalke 04.

Almost immediately thoughts turned to Hodgson's future because, after an outstanding season, the former Switzerland coach is apparently attracting interest from Liverpool, where Rafael Benitez is on uncertain ground.

Losing Hodgson would be a major blow for Fulham, who have prospered so much under his guidance over the past three seasons. However, while he did not entirely close the door on a summer exit, it seems he has no plans to move on.

"I have never given my future a moment's thought," Hodgson said. "I have been committed all the time I have been with the club.

"I still have a contract and, as far as I know, this is where I shall be."

Hodgson has been in charge of eight teams in seven countries since that 1997 reverse and his reaction at missing out on his unexpected shot at redemption was understandably pained.

"It doesn't matter how much comfort I try to find, and there is a lot to be found in the season, at this moment now it is difficult to find any comfort, joy or enthusiasm," the 62-year-old said.

"You'd be surprised if my attitude was anything but bitterness and disappointment at seeing another good performance go unrewarded."

Hodgson and his team certainly have a lot to be proud of.

He joined Fulham at the end of 2007 and after staving off relegation in his first season he guided them to a place in the UEFA Cup and on to the giantkilling run that took them through to the final and earned him the LMA Manager of the Year award.

This year their league form dipped a little and they eventually finished down in 12th. That, and their final defeat on Wednesday, means there will be no return to the competition next season.

Reuters / PA Sport