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Key Takeaways from Danny Rohl's Rangers Press Conference

Danny Rohl media conference

Rohl addressed the media for approximately half an hour during his introductory media appearance

  • Published
    2 hours ago

Nearly 135 days after the previous coach's initial media briefing as Rangers head coach, successor Danny Rohl met with reporters at Rangers' stadium for the initial occasion.

The magnitude of the challenge ahead of him is widely recognized, given his predecessor's turbulent and unsuccessful four-month tenure.

The former Wednesday boss was accompanied by chairman Andrew Cavenagh, along with the much-criticized pair of football director Thelwell and CEO Patrick Stewart.

However, what exactly was revealed from the young German's first public appearance as the club's manager?

Rohl's Primary Focus - Victory Comes First

A single message came through loud and clear from Rohl's initial presentation before the local press - he understands the need to secure victories, and achieve this rapidly.

The previous manager Russell Martin managed just 17 matches and 123 days as manager, so the inquiry arose about what timeframe Rohl believes is realistic to turn around the underperforming team.

While skillfully sidestepping a direct answer that might create future pressure, the coach's communication was quite clear.

"With hope as soon as possible," he said. "That is crucial.
"In football you have limited time. One can talk about long-term vision but it's understood it concerns the short-term and that period involves securing victories. That is my requirement.
"Another aspect is also obvious - I need every squad member to comprehend our intended to play. I come back to my primary message: it's winning, it's attractive and it's together. By following this order, I believe that I'll stay for years at the club."

Expectations are Normal

Danny Rohl press conference

Martin required a police escort to leave the Falkirk Stadium after his final game in charge.

We've seen how hostile situations can turn at sports teams when results decline. Protests have almost become an expected aspect of game day atmosphere on each part of Glasgow currently.

As the club's most youthful manager in history, the question was posed about what qualities Rohl believes he possesses that would allow him to cope, let alone thrive, in one of the most pressurized roles in British football?

"I think expectations in football is normal," he commented. "You must learn that very quickly.
"I believe certain individuals could reference my youth but I have been a decade and a half in this career. I had a great chance to be at Bayern Munich and be only an assistant coach, but I experienced what it means to be a head coach and the demands involved.
"When you start getting results and then some critics claim you need to play attractive soccer. That becomes the stage but precisely my intention. I enjoy that challenge and I look forward for what's ahead."

The Sporting Director Defends Chermiti Signing & Hiring His Son

Kevin Thelwell media conference

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

Significant attention has concerned the appointment of his son as recruitment chief, with supporters skeptical about his qualifications for the role.

Nevertheless, he justified and explained the decision to bring his son to Ibrox.

"It remains uncomfortable to listen and in appearance I think everyone understood when we took this decision to appoint him that he'd be seen in a particular way," Thelwell stated.
"The truth of circumstances is that we aim to bring the very best talent to this club.
"My view on his professional path and situation is he didn't need family help in football.
"He's worked at Villa as a senior scout, after which he moved to Norwich City as head of scouting and then was elevated to player pathways manager.
"Prior to our hiring him, two top division teams sought to acquire him. Our approach from the start of proceedings was discuss with the CEO, Andrew and vice-chairman Marathe about this situation.
"I was extremely transparent and I believe he likely underwent a stricter procedure than anybody else employee by the team.
"I'm certain is that he will work constantly to achieve success for this football club and I anticipate seeing him demonstrating that he's going to be an excellent employee for the club."

Additionally, Thelwell supported the acquisition of striker Chermiti, who joined Rangers for a reported initial fee of £8m, after failing to score in 24 appearances for Everton.

It was Thelwell who transferred the Portugal young international to Merseyside from Sporting Lisbon - again 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 the club.

"Yes, completely," Thelwell responded. "I believe the striker represents who's possesses huge potential.
"I've never doubted him whatsoever. Again, I believe Danny will help to get the best out of the player.
"These are initial stages for him, he's a young talent and naturally with inexperienced players they occasionally take time.
"However, I'm convinced throughout of his time at the club he's going to prove that he is highly capable player."

Stewart Acknowledges Fan Frustration and Hurt

The chief executive was facing scrutiny, considering the criticism that has been aimed his way by some of the club's fans.

Additionally, there was a sign in the Sandy Jardine stand during the last draw with United inviting Stewart - and the sporting director - to pack his bags before they were packed for him.

Similar to the football director, Stewart didn't evade the topic.

"I totally appreciate the frustration and hurt that the supporters are experiencing because results this season haven't been good enough and no one is happy with those," he said.
"The pain and frustration fans experience is matched within the boardroom.
"Also understand that there must exist an outlet for those frustrations and as chief executive, I'm responsible.
"I serve as focal point for such issues and my role as a
MB
The writer

Michael Brooks

A fintech journalist and blockchain enthusiast with over a decade of experience covering digital currency markets and regulatory developments across Europe.

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