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Major Insights from Danny Rohl's Rangers Media Unveiling

Danny Rohl media conference

Rohl spoke to the media for approximately half an hour during his introductory press conference

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    2 hours ago

Exactly four and a half months following Russell Martin's first press conference as Rangers manager, successor the German coach met with the media at Ibrox for the first time.

The magnitude of the challenge facing him is well known, given his predecessor's chaotic and unsuccessful four-month tenure.

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

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

The Manager's Primary Focus - Victory is Everything

One thing emerged clearly from the new coach's first appearance in front of the Scottish media - he recognizes the need to secure victories, and do so rapidly.

His predecessor Russell Martin lasted only 17 games and 123 days as manager, so the question emerged about what timeframe Rohl thinks is reasonable to turn around the underperforming squad.

Although deftly sidestepping a direct answer that could bring future pressure, the coach's communication was very evident.

"Hopefully very quickly," he said. "This is essential.
"In this business you have limited time. You can discuss future plans but it's understood it concerns immediate results and that period involves securing victories. This is my requirement.
"Another aspect is also clear - I need all players to comprehend how we want to play. I come back to my main theme: it's winning, entertaining football and it's together. If you follow this order, I believe that I will remain very long here."

Expectations are Standard

Danny Rohl press conference

The previous manager needed a police escort to exit the Falkirk Stadium after his final match as manager.

We've seen how hostile situations can become at football clubs when performances are poor. Protests have almost become a regular aspect of the matchday atmosphere on both sides of the city these days.

As Rangers' youngest ever head coach, the inquiry was posed about which attributes Rohl believes he possesses that would enable him to cope, let alone excel, in among the most pressurized roles in British football?

"In my opinion expectations in this business is normal," he stated. "One needs to understand that rapidly.
"I think certain individuals might mention my youth but I have been 16 years in this career. I experienced an excellent chance to be at Bayern Munich and be just the assistant coach, but I experienced the reality to be a head coach and the demands you face.
"You begin winning games and then some critics claim you need to play attractive football. That becomes the phase but that's exactly my intention. I relish that challenge and I'm excited about the future."

The Sporting Director Defends Striker Acquisition & Appointing His Son

Kevin Thelwell media conference

There were plenty of questions from journalists for Thelwell.

Much discussion has concerned the appointment of his son as recruitment chief, with fans skeptical about his credentials for the role.

However, he justified and explained the decision to bring Thelwell Jnr to Ibrox.

"It remains uncomfortable to hear and optically I think everyone understood when we took this step to appoint Robbie that he would be seen negatively," Thelwell stated.
"The truth of the situation is that we want to attract the top players to this club.
"My view on his professional path and background is he didn't need family help in soccer.
"He served at Villa as head scout, he then moved to Norwich City as head of scouting and then was elevated to player pathways manager.
"Before we recruited him, two top division clubs wanted to acquire him. Our approach right at the start of the process was consult with Patrick, Andrew and deputy chairman Marathe about this situation.
"I was highly transparent and I believe he likely underwent a more rigorous procedure than any other who's employed by this football club.
"What I do know is that he'll labor constantly to achieve success for this football club and I anticipate seeing him demonstrating that he'll become an excellent staff member for Rangers."

Thelwell also defended the signing of striker Youssef Chermiti, who joined Rangers for a reported initial fee of £8m, after failing to score in 24 games for Everton.

It was Thelwell who transferred the Portuguese young international to Liverpool from Sporting Lisbon - once more for large funds in a £15m deal.

He was asked if he stands by his expensive signing, who hasn't yet register in seven outings for the club.

"Yes, very much so," Thelwell answered. "I believe the striker is a player who's got huge potential.
"I haven't questioned him whatsoever. Similarly, I believe Danny will assist in maximize the potential out of Youssef.
"These are initial stages for the young player, he's a young talent and of course with inexperienced players they sometimes require patience.
"But I'm certain throughout of his time here he'll demonstrate that he's a very, very good player."

The CEO Understands Supporters' Disappointment and Hurt

Stewart was also in the media scrutiny, considering the vitriol that has been directed his way by certain club own supporters.

There was even a sign in the stadium during the recent tie with Dundee United suggesting him - and Thelwell - to pack his bags before they were packed for them.

Like his sporting director, Stewart didn't avoid the topic.

"I totally understand the frustration and hurt that fans are feeling because results this season haven't been expectations and nobody's happy with those," he said.
"The pain and frustration they feel is matched within the boardroom.
"Also understand that there must exist an outlet for that dissatisfaction and in my role, I'm responsible.
"I serve as lightning rod for those and my role as a
About the author

Nicholas Holt

Elena is a WordPress developer and digital strategist with over 8 years of experience in creating custom themes and plugins for businesses worldwide.

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