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Key Takeaways from Rohl's Rangers Introduction

Danny Rohl media conference

Rohl addressed the media for nearly 30 minutes during his introductory press conference

  • Published
    2 hours ago

Exactly 135 days after Russell Martin's initial media briefing as the club's head coach, successor Danny Rohl met with reporters at Rangers' stadium for the first time.

The scale of the task facing him is widely recognized, given his predecessor's turbulent and disappointing four-month tenure.

The ex- Sheffield Wednesday manager was joined by chairman Andrew Cavenagh, along with the frequently questioned pair of sporting director Kevin Thelwell and chief executive Patrick Stewart.

But what exactly was revealed from the young coach's first public appearance as Rangers boss?

The Manager's Main Priority - Victory is Everything

One thing emerged clearly from the new coach's initial presentation in front of the Scottish media - he recognizes the need to win matches, and do so quickly.

His predecessor Russell Martin managed just 17 games and 123 days as manager, so the question emerged about how long Rohl thinks is reasonable to transform the underperforming squad.

While skillfully sidestepping a direct answer that could bring later expectations, Rohl's message was quite clear.

"Hopefully as soon as possible," he said. "This is essential.
"In this business you have limited time. One can talk about future plans but we know it concerns immediate results and that period is about securing victories. This is what I demand.
"Another aspect remains obvious - I need every squad member to comprehend our intended to perform. I return to my primary theme: it's winning, it's attractive and unity. If you follow this sequence, I'm convinced that I will remain very long here."

Pressure is Standard

Danny Rohl press conference

The previous manager needed security protection to exit the Falkirk Stadium after his last match as manager.

We've witnessed how hostile environments can turn at sports teams when performances decline. Protests have almost become an expected part of game day experience on each part of Glasgow these days.

As Rangers' youngest ever head coach, the inquiry asked about which attributes Rohl believes he has that would enable him to cope, never mind excel, in one of the most pressurized positions in British football?

"I think pressure in this business is normal," he stated. "You must learn that very quickly.
"I think certain individuals could reference my youth but I have been 16 years in this career. I experienced an excellent opportunity to work with Bayern Munich and serve as just the assistant manager, but I experienced what it means to be a head coach and the pressure involved.
"When you start getting results and then certain people claim you need to play attractive soccer. That becomes the phase but precisely my intention. I relish those expectations and I look forward for the future."

The Sporting Director Explains Chermiti Signing & Appointing His Son

Kevin Thelwell media conference

The media pack had plenty of inquiries from journalists for Thelwell.

Much discussion has focused on the appointment of Robbie Thelwell as recruitment chief, with supporters unconvinced about his credentials for the role.

However, he defended and explained the decision to bring his son to the club.

"It's always uncomfortable to hear and in appearance I believe everyone understood when we made this step to hire Robbie that he'd be viewed negatively," Thelwell said.
"The reality of circumstances is that we aim to attract the very best talent here.
"My perspective on Robbie's career and situation is he didn't need my assistance in soccer.
"He's worked at Aston Villa as a senior scout, he then joined Norwich as scouting chief and then got promoted to development role.
"Prior to our hiring him, two Premier League teams sought to sign him. What we did from the beginning of the process was consult with Patrick, the chairman and deputy chairman Paraag Marathe about this matter.
"I was highly transparent and I think Robbie probably experienced a more rigorous process than anybody else employee by this football club.
"I'm certain is that he'll labor constantly to be successful for Rangers and I'm looking forward to him demonstrating that he'll become an excellent employee for Rangers."

Thelwell also supported the acquisition of forward Chermiti, who joined Rangers for a reported initial fee of £8m, after failing to score in 24 appearances for his previous club.

It was Thelwell who brought the Portuguese young international to Liverpool from Sporting Lisbon - once more for significant money in a fifteen million pound deal.

The question came if he supports his multi-million pound signing, who is yet to register in seven outings for the club.

"Yes, very much so," Thelwell responded. "I believe the striker represents who's possesses great ability.
"I've never questioned him in any way. Similarly, I believe Danny will assist in maximize the potential out of the player.
"It's very early days for him, he remains promising prospect and naturally with inexperienced players they occasionally require patience.
"But I'm certain over the course of his time here he's going to prove that he's a very, very good player."

The CEO Acknowledges Fan Frustration and Hurt

Stewart was also in the media scrutiny, considering the vitriol that has been aimed his way by certain of the club's fans.

Additionally, there was a banner in the Sandy Jardine stand during the recent tie with United inviting Stewart - and Thelwell - to depart before being removed for them.

Similar to the sporting director, Stewart didn't avoid the issue.

"I completely understand the frustration and anger that fans are feeling because results this season haven't been good enough and no one is satisfied with them," he stated.
"The hurt and disappointment they feel is mirrored within the leadership.
"Also understand that there must exist an outlet for those frustrations and in my role, I'm responsible.
"I serve as focal point for those and my responsibility as a
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Patrick Gonzalez

A tech journalist and network specialist based in Toronto, passionate about bridging digital divides and exploring innovative connectivity solutions.

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