Fergie warns players

Ferguson says he will axe stars if they misbehave

Last updated: 30th December 2007   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Fergie warns players

Ferguson: Warning for stars

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

Ferguson is thought to be unhappy after the club found itself in the headlines for the wrong reasons following the players' Christmas party earlier this month.

The wily Scot admits controlling players has grown more difficult, but he insists he will not tolerate any of his players tarnishing the image of the club.

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

Changes

"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."

"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 also hit out at the celebrity culture within football in the modern game.

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

"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."

Ferguson, who celebrates his 66th birthday on New Year's Eve, says he has no plans to retire from football as he believes the current United squad is the best he has ever had.

Retirement
"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.

"We are going for three trophies and there is a great enthusiasm, drive and consistency about the place. I think we can handle anything."