Work has begun at Linfield as David Healy looks forward to "challenging again next year" after losing their league champions crown to Larne.
The Blues had won the last four league titles but have been pipped to the post by the Invermen this season.
Preparations are already underway as Healy plots his title challenge for next season with Linfield being linked to a sensational move for Glenavon striker Matthew Fitzpatrick.
Read next: Ekin Su and Davide show their support for European winners Hillsborough Boys
Title winner Fuad Sule is another name being reported to make the move to Windsor Park as the former champions rebuild.
Healy congratulated Larne on their league title win but is determined to come out fighting after admitting it had "been a tough week".
"It's been a tough week and when you feel as if you've been champions for a period of time and sustained success like we have done, you're always looking for more of it," he said.
"I'm self aware that success has to be earned and we haven't earned this year as we haven't been the best team.
"I've always tried to work - believe it or not - on a siege mentality where you've always something to prove.
"This year it hasn't been the case but I look forward to challenging again next year.
"I'm embracing being the Linfield manager pushing to try and be that team, that manager, those players to have a right go at winning the league next year.
"Credit to Larne, Tiernan, Kenny and all the staff and everybody around the infrastructure as they've been coming for a number of years now. The only question was 'when'?
"It may have come a little bit sooner than what they envisaged at the start of their journey but all credit to them.
"We will congratulate them and look forward to the game on Friday."
READ NEXT:
- Kenny Bruce reacts to Larne title win and 'money money money' jibe
Kyle Coney insists Tyrone always believe they are genuine All-Ireland contenders
Sign up to our free sports newsletter to get the latest headlines to your inbox.
