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Important Lessons from Rohl's Rangers Introduction

Danny Rohl media conference

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

  • Published
    2 hours ago

Nearly 135 days after Russell Martin's first press conference as Rangers manager, successor the German coach met with the media at Rangers' stadium for the first time.

The scale of the task facing him is widely recognized, considering Martin's turbulent and disappointing 123-day tenure.

The ex- Sheffield Wednesday manager was joined by chairman Andrew Cavenagh, along with the frequently questioned pair of football director Thelwell and CEO Stewart.

But what precisely did we learn from the young German's maiden media outing as the club's manager?

Rohl's Main Priority - Winning Comes First

One thing emerged loud and clear from Rohl's first appearance in front of the local press - he recognizes the necessity to win matches, and achieve this rapidly.

The previous manager Martin lasted only 17 matches and four months as manager, so the inquiry emerged about what timeframe the new man believes is realistic to turn around the struggling squad.

While skillfully avoiding a specific response that might create later expectations, Rohl's communication was quite clear.

"With hope very quickly," he stated. "This is essential.
"In this business you have limited opportunity. You can discuss future plans but it's understood it's about immediate results and the short-term involves securing victories. That is what I demand.
"Another aspect remains clear - I need all players to comprehend how we want to play. I return to my primary message: it's winning, entertaining football and it's together. By following this order, I'm convinced that I'll stay for years here."

Pressure is Standard

Danny Rohl press conference

Martin required security protection to leave the stadium after his last game in charge.

We've witnessed how hostile situations can turn at sports teams when results decline. Demonstrations have nearly become an expected part of game day atmosphere on both sides of the city these days.

As the club's most youthful ever head coach, the question asked about what qualities the coach thinks he possesses that would allow him to cope, never mind excel, in one of the highest-pressure positions in UK soccer?

"In my opinion pressure in football is normal," he stated. "One needs to understand that very quickly.
"I think certain individuals might mention my age but I have been 16 years in this career. I had an excellent opportunity to be at Bayern Munich and serve as only an assistant manager, but I experienced what it means to manage a team and the demands you face.
"You begin winning games and then certain people claim you need to produce entertaining football. That becomes the stage but that's exactly my intention. I enjoy that challenge and I'm excited about what's ahead."

Thelwell Defends Chermiti Signing & Appointing Family Member

Kevin Thelwell media conference

There were numerous inquiries from journalists directed at Thelwell.

Significant attention has concerned the hiring of Robbie Thelwell as recruitment chief, with supporters skeptical about his qualifications for the role.

However, he defended and explained the choice to recruit Thelwell Jnr to Ibrox.

"It's always awkward to hear and in appearance I believe we all agreed when we took this step to appoint him that he would be viewed negatively," Thelwell said.
"The truth of the situation is that we aim to attract the top players to this club.
"My view on Robbie's career and background is he required no my assistance in football.
"He's worked at Aston Villa as a senior scout, he then moved to Norwich City as head of scouting and then got promoted to development role.
"Prior to our recruited him, two top division clubs sought to acquire him. What we did from the start of proceedings was consult with Patrick, Andrew and deputy chairman Marathe about this situation.
"I was highly transparent and I believe he likely underwent a stricter procedure than anybody else who's employed by this football club.
"What I do know is that he will work 25/8 to achieve success for Rangers and I anticipate seeing him proving that he's going to be a valuable employee for Rangers."

Thelwell also defended the signing of striker Youssef Chermiti, who arrived at the club for an alleged first payment of eight million pounds, having failed to find the net in 24 games for his previous club.

The sporting director who brought the Portugal youth international to Liverpool from Sporting Lisbon - once more for large funds in a fifteen million pound deal.

He was asked if he supports his expensive purchase, who is yet to score in seven matches for Rangers.

"Yes, very much so," Thelwell answered. "I believe Youssef Chermiti is a player who's got huge potential.
"I've never doubted him whatsoever. Again, I believe the manager will help to get the best out of the player.
"It's very initial stages for him, he remains young talent and of course with inexperienced players they occasionally require patience.
"However, I'm convinced throughout of his career here he's going to prove that he's a very, very good footballer."

Stewart Understands Supporters' Disappointment and Hurt

Stewart was also in the media scrutiny, considering the vitriol that has been aimed at him by some of the club's own supporters.

There was even a banner in the Sandy Jardine stand during the recent draw with Dundee United suggesting him - and the sporting director - to pack his bags before they were packed for him.

Similar to the sporting director, the CEO did not evade the topic.

"I totally appreciate the frustration and hurt that the supporters are feeling because performances recently haven't been expectations and nobody's satisfied with them," he stated.
"The hurt and disappointment they feel is mirrored within the boardroom.
"Recognize that there has to be a channel for those frustrations and as chief executive, that's me.
"I'm a lightning rod for those and my role as a
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Jennifer Perez

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