The festive party season is upon us, but Neal Ardley says his own party life is well and truly behind him.

While the Dons players must watch their yule-tide extravagances ahead of League Two matches on Boxing Day at home to Southend United, on December 29 at home to Plymouth and New Year’s Day at Dagenham & Redbridge, the boss could be forgiven for letting his hair down.

However, Ardley appears to be leading by example – or is it by chance?

“I was more of a drinker when I was a player, which is probably the wrong way round really,” he said.

“My social life has gone down the pan. I don’t really like going out and having loads and loads to drink.

“I love a glass of wine indoors at the weekend, and on Christmas day I will have a few glasses of wine with the family during dinner, and enjoy it.

“But I will always be thinking about the next day.

“Come Boxing day, I’ll want to get up, go for a nice run and clear my head, and get ready to go for it in the afternoon.”

He added: “Everything in moderation. That’s the way these days.”