Ronald Koeman has defended his decision to axe three of Valencia's leading players ahead of the winter market.

Koeman has risked isolating himself from the Valencia dressing room after informing David Albelda, Santiago Canizares and Miguel Angel Angulo they have no futures at the Mestalla.

However, the new Los Che coach insisted to Marca: "If I hadn't done this, I know I would not be able to work here."

Koeman also admitted there will be more changes before the end of the season. It's understood he's also warned Manuel Fernandes, Nikola Zigic and Vicente that they're also under the spotlight.