Sir Alex Ferguson is reportedly ready to axe four players following Sunday's 6-1 defeat to local rivals Manchester City.

The boss singled out Rio Ferdinand and Patrice Evra for criticism after the weekend's loss, with Ferguson ready to partner Nemanja Vidic and Phil Jones at centre-back for Saturday's trip to Everton.

Brazilian full-back Fabio could take the place of Evra.

Also expected to drop the bench are the central midfield duo of Anderson and Darren Fletcher.