Everton boss Sam Allardyce has canceled Christmas for his players.

The squad had intended to hold their annual get-together after Monday's game against Swansea at Goodison Park, as there is a five-day gap before the next match at home to Chelsea, but new manager Allardyce has intervened.

Allardyce said: "I've stopped the Christmas party because it is not needed at the moment because of the position we were in when I arrived here.

"I told the players I will pay them back when they come out of Christmas into January. We will socialise but we can socialise at the right time. It is very important that the players — in today's environment with social media — are not seen to be out enjoying themselves too much.

"A lot has been asked of them, playing in Europe and with injuries. So the party is off until there is a period of time when we are in a very good position. Then I can say to the lads, “Have a relaxing time, which you deserve". But I don't want a call telling me they have been in trouble because they will be in more trouble with me."