Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has emphasised the importance of discipline.

Ferguson has notoriously taken a hard line with his players throughout his career and has not been afraid to sell some of the club's biggest stars.

His latest comments come after revelations about the club's Christmas party made front-page headlines and off the back of yesterday's 2-1 defeat by West Ham.

The Scot said: "Football has changed but you cannot lose your control. That is why we make changes here at Manchester United when we see anyone interfering with this sense of control.

"When we see this, then it's time for them to go because this club is based on everyone being together.

"When we start going off at tangents you have to assess it - definitely."

Ferguson has also expanded on his dislike of the celebrity lifestyle now enjoyed by many high-profile players.

He added: "What annoys me about some players today is this personal glory thing.

"They score a goal and then knock players out of the road so they can have their own private, personal gratification and praise from the fans. It's ugly seeing these kind of celebrations.

"These present-day footballers need to be noticed, with their earrings and tattoos. They no longer go to the small Italian restaurants but to the big and bright places."