Manchester City caretaker manager Brian Kidd paid tribute to the players after their win at Reading.
Kidd stepped in to take charge after the sacking of Roberto Mancini.
"What has gone on in the last 24 hours was a shock to the staff, and before the game I would have just taken the result, to get the three points and take second place," he said.
"It's all credit to the players - they are the ones who have had to put up with stuff off the pitch.
"I am pleased for them because it would have been a travesty if we hadn't finished second.
"I was asked to take charge for two games, and, being a Manchester lad, I couldn't say no. I wouldn't have been able to walk down Market Street if I had. You'd have to ask the players how they feel. We appreciate the fans, and they were disappointed, and we were disappointed, on Saturday.
"What you've seen is a combination of a couple of things, but I think it was a relief because it has been a tough 48 hours."