Sir Alex Warns Partying Players

Sir Alex Ferguson has warned his Manchester United players they face the axe if they step out of line again.

The Old Trafford manager's comments come in the wake of the lurid headlines which have followed the players' infamous Christmas party.

Ferguson said: "Football has changed but you cannot lose your control.

"We make changes here at Manchester United when we see anyone interfering with that control. When we see this it's time for them to go."

Ferguson has until now refused to comment on the party which lead to player Jonny Evans being arrested and he is said to be furious at the unwanted headlines the pre-Christmas event attracted.

The Scot, whose team surrendered top spot in the Premier League to Arsenal with their shock 2-1 defeat at West Ham on Saturday, added: "Times have changed for me as a manager.

"But this club is based on everyone together. When anyone starts going off at tangents you have to make changes."

Ferguson, who turns 66 on Monday, also accused some of today's top players of being selfish and being obsessed with a celebrity culture.

"What annoys me about some footballers today is the personal glory thing," he added.

"They score a goal and knock players out of the road so they can get personal gratification and play to the fans.

"The present day footballer needs to be noticed with his ear-rings and tattoos. But people in general need to be noticed, it's not just footballers.

"They don't go to small, intimate restaurants, they go to places that are big and bright where you are seen and get noticed. It is difficult to control."

However, Ferguson insisted he has no intention of relinquishing his control of the club, even though November 2008 will see him complete 22 years in charge.

"Absolutely no doubt about that, retirement is not on the agenda," he said.

"The potential of this group of players is the best I have ever had. There is great enthusiasm about the place, a great team spirit and a good drive."