The players of Everton have been informed by manager Sam Allardyce that they will not be allowed to hold a Christmas party this season due to their performances during the early parts of the season.
The Toffees played a poor brand of football during the early games of the season and this eventually led to the sacking of Ronald Koeman.
They have however shown improvements since Allardyce took over, winning one and drawing three of their games played thus far under the veteran tactician.
The no-nonsense Allardyce will not allow his players to celebrate unless their form improves during the new year.
When asked about why he had cancelled next week’s bash which was to take place after the Swansea game, he said: “It is not needed at the moment and because of the position we were in when I first arrived here.
“I told the players I will pay them back when they come out of Christmas and into January in a better position. They can go and socialise at the right time. As a manager it was very important that the players, in today’s environment with social media, were not seen to be out enjoying themselves too much.
“They have turned things around already for me but [the festive schedule] is our biggest demand. It is probably not overall because a lot has been demanded already with their season starting in July with Europe, and the injuries. A lot has been demanded of the players and Christmas will be the same.
“The party is off until there is a period of time when we are in a very good position and I can tell the lads they can have the relaxing time that they deserve. But whatever they do I don’t want a phone call telling me they’ve been in trouble or they will be in even more trouble with me.”
