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Key Takeaways from Danny Rohl's Rangers Introduction

Danny Rohl media conference

Rohl addressed the media for approximately 30 minutes during his first media appearance

  • Published
    2 hours ago

Exactly 135 days after Russell Martin's first press conference as Rangers manager, his replacement Danny Rohl met with the media at Rangers' stadium for the initial occasion.

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

The former Sheffield Wednesday boss was accompanied by club chairman the chairman, along with the much-criticized duo of football director Thelwell and chief executive Patrick Stewart.

But what precisely did we learn from the 36-year-old German's first public appearance as Rangers boss?

The Manager's Primary Focus - Victory Comes First

A single message came through clearly from the new coach's first appearance before the local press - he recognizes the necessity to secure victories, and do so quickly.

The previous manager Martin managed just 17 matches and 123 days in charge, so the question arose about what timeframe Rohl believes is reasonable to transform the struggling team.

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

"Hopefully as soon as possible," he said. "This is essential.
"In this business you have not much opportunity. One can talk about long-term vision but it's understood it concerns immediate results and that period is about securing victories. This is what I demand.
"One thing remains clear - I require every squad member to comprehend how we want to perform. I come back to my primary message: victory comes first, entertaining football and it's together. By following this sequence, I'm convinced that I will remain for years here."

Pressure is Normal

Danny Rohl press conference

The previous manager needed security protection to leave the stadium after his last game in charge.

We've witnessed how hostile situations can become at sports teams when performances are poor. Demonstrations have almost become an expected aspect of the matchday atmosphere on both sides of Glasgow currently.

As Rangers' youngest manager in history, the inquiry asked about which attributes the coach thinks he has that would allow him to cope, never mind thrive, in among the most pressurized roles in British football?

"In my opinion expectations in football are standard," he stated. "You must learn that very quickly.
"I think certain individuals might mention my youth but I'm 16 years in this career. I experienced a great chance to be at the German club and be just the assistant manager, but I felt what it means to be a head coach and the demands involved.
"When you start winning games and then certain people claim you need to produce entertaining soccer. That's the next stage but precisely my intention. I relish that challenge and I'm excited about what's ahead."

The Sporting Director Defends Chermiti Signing & Hiring Family Member

Kevin Thelwell media conference

There were numerous questions from journalists for Thelwell.

Much discussion has concerned the hiring of his son as recruitment chief, with fans unconvinced about his qualifications for the role.

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

"It's always awkward to hear and in appearance I think everyone understood when we made this step to appoint him that he would be viewed negatively," Thelwell said.
"The reality of the situation is that we want to attract the very best talent here.
"My perspective on Robbie's career and situation is he required no family help in soccer.
"He's worked at Villa as a senior scout, he then moved to Norwich City as scouting chief and then was elevated to development role.
"Prior to our recruited him, multiple Premier League clubs wanted to sign him. Our approach right at the start of the process was consult with the CEO, the chairman and vice-chairman Marathe about this matter.
"I remained highly transparent and I think he likely underwent a stricter process than any other who's employed by the team.
"I'm certain is that he'll labor constantly to be successful for this football club and I anticipate seeing him demonstrating that he'll become an excellent employee for Rangers."

Additionally, Thelwell defended the acquisition of striker Youssef Chermiti, who joined the club for a reported first payment of eight million pounds, having failed to score in 24 games for Everton.

The sporting director who brought the Portuguese youth international to Merseyside from Sporting Lisbon - again for large funds in a fifteen million pound deal.

The question came if he stands by his multi-million pound signing, who is yet to register in seven outings for Rangers.

"Yes, very much so," Thelwell answered. "I think Youssef Chermiti is a player who's possesses great ability.
"I haven't questioned him whatsoever. Again, I believe Danny will assist in get the best out of Youssef.
"It's very early days for the young player, he remains young talent and naturally with inexperienced players they sometimes take time.
"But I'm certain throughout of his career at the club he's going to prove that he's a highly capable footballer."

The CEO Acknowledges Fan Frustration and Hurt

Stewart was also facing scrutiny, given the criticism that has been aimed his way by some of the club's fans.

There was even a banner in the Sandy Jardine stand during the recent 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 avoid the topic.

"I totally understand the disappointment and hurt that fans are experiencing because results this season haven't met good enough and no one is satisfied with them," he stated.
"The pain and frustration they feel is matched inside the boardroom.
"Also understand that there has to be an outlet for those frustrations and as chief executive, that's me.
"I'm a focal point for those and my responsibility as a
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Michael Price

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