Rocky Start 2021/22

"I did say it wasn't going to be easy. The teams know us now and we've still got a small squad."

After 18 games PSNI are 11th, with 15 points. Performances have been patchy and as a result de la Vega was forced into making tactical changes.

"Lining up in a standard 4-4-2 worked last season but we've needed to work for space more this year. So I swapped to a 4-5-1 essentially. One defensive midfielder, two central, to advanced wingers and a striker. We started playing better football immediately. Not perfect but better."

The first match with the new formation ended in a shock 2-0 win in the cup over Linfield. Though fans were happy to be through, and after such a performance, many remain worried. Some fans have stated to question the performances of the back four, and keeper, as PSNI continue to let leads slip.

There seems to be little de la Vega can do though as reports suggest the club is once again sliding towards financial trouble, despite a reduce wage bill.

"Not only do we have less in the budget than last year but we're also using less as well. I think that paints a good picture of where we are financially."