Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has BANNED CHRISTMAS for his players.

The News of the World says Ferguson has banned Manchester United players from holding their own Christmas bash.

The United boss has ruled out a repeat of last year's private gig when they bussed in groups of women to a luxury hotel in Manchester city centre.

Sir Alex read them the riot act after the party where defender Johnny Evans was falsely accused of rape.

A United source said: "Sir Alex was raging at the situation his players found themselves in last year.

"A few of the lads were starting to talk about getting a venue for this year but their celebrations will now be very low-key and involve the gaffer every step of the way.

"He doesn't expect them to be virtual saints but he puts a lot of store in them involving partners, and knows it will keep them all on the straight and narrow."