Fulham owner Shahid Khan has apologised to the club’s fans after their abject return to the Premier League ended in relegation.

The Whites went down with a whimper after being thrashed 4-1 by Watford on Tuesday night and big concerns remain over the club’s future. The first decision Khan will have to make is whether to stick with caretaker manager Scott Parker or recruit a permanent replacement for the former Fulham captain.

In a statement released on Fulham’s official website, the Fulham chairman said:

“Our results over the past three months were as troubling for me and everyone associated with our Club as I know they were for you. Last night’s outcome made official what we didn’t think would be possible in August and tried desperately to remedy and avoid as the season wore on.

For me, that makes today the most difficult day of all. I am sorry that we let you down. Our goal this season was to build on what we achieved in promotion and deliver on our pledge to invest heavily in the squad, ensuring that Fulham would always compete in the Premier League and, no matter the result, never disappoint.”

That didn’t occur and, for that, we hold ourselves accountable. We will reflect, plan thoroughly and respond accordingly. In the weeks ahead we will communicate further as to our vision for the future, which includes the latest progress on the Riverside Stand project that will underline my investment in your beloved Club.

I recognise that may not be of consolation today, but I offer it nonetheless to assure you of my total commitment to Fulham Football Club. Thank you for your faith, endurance and support.”