Alex Ferguson, following Monday's 15-hour boozy bash at the Great John Street Hotel in Manchester, is believed to have read the riot act to captain Gary Neville, No2 Ryan Giggs and event organiser Rio Ferdinand.

He feels that the seniors should have been more aware of trouble that could come with such a high-profile team outing.

But, as usual, he will not enter any public debate about internal disciplinary sanctions, or the merits of having a party in the first place.

'I have nothing to say about the events of the week,' said the manager.

'Why would I say anything? Alex Ferguson has been dealing with situations like this for 21 years - and I know exactly what we do.

'I will not be guided or instructed by anyone. It is a club matter, and we will carry on the way we have always done.'

If the bad publicity was not enough, United could be in for a bluer weekend.

Tomorrow, the Premier League's most in-form team, Everton, are hoping to win at Old Trafford for the first time since 1992 and break into the top four.

'When people say it is impossible to break into the top four, I see that as fighting talk and our motivation,' Everton manager David Moyes said. 'This is the best squad I have had, so why not?'

His men are unbeaten in 13 matches in all competitions - after Thursday's 3-2 Uefa Cup win over AZ Alkmaar, who had not been beaten in 32 home matches in Europe.

The feat was all the more impressive, given that the likes of Tim Cahill, Mikel Arteta and Yakubu Aiyegbeni were rested.

And they could even afford to finish with three 19-year-olds and 16-year-old debutant Jack Rodwell.

'The Everton of three seasons ago was gritty and tight, but with little flair,' said pundit Andy Gray, the former Everton striker.

'This is an Everton side capable of fantastic football, and their toughness makes them hard to beat.

'David has a combination of shrewd purchases of experienced players like Yakubu, Phil Neville and Andy Johnson - and youngsters like Leon Osman, Victor Anichebe and James Vaughan coming through.

'This is a massive test for Everton. But, if any Everton team can give United a fright, it is this one.'

AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE

Manchester United v Everton
Live, Ch27, tomorrow, 7.55pm