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Important Lessons from Danny Rohl's Rangers Introduction

Danny Rohl media conference

Rohl spoke to journalists for approximately 30 minutes during his introductory media appearance

  • Published
    2 hours ago

Exactly 135 days following Russell Martin's initial media briefing as the club's head coach, his replacement the German coach met with the media at Rangers' stadium for the initial occasion.

The magnitude of the challenge ahead of him is well known, given Martin's turbulent and disappointing 123-day tenure.

The ex- Wednesday boss was joined by chairman Andrew Cavenagh, along with the much-criticized duo of sporting director Kevin Thelwell and chief executive Stewart.

But what exactly was revealed from the young German's maiden media outing as the club's manager?

Rohl's Primary Focus - Winning Comes First

A single message came through loud and clear from Rohl's first appearance in front of the Scottish media - he understands the necessity to secure victories, and achieve this quickly.

The previous manager Russell Martin managed just 17 matches and 123 days in charge, so the inquiry emerged about what timeframe the new man believes is reasonable to turn around the underperforming squad.

While skillfully avoiding a direct answer that could bring future pressure, the coach's communication was quite clear.

"With hope as soon as possible," he said. "That is essential.
"In this business you have not much opportunity. One can talk about future plans but it's understood it's about the short-term and the short-term involves winning games. That is my requirement.
"One thing is also clear - I require every squad member to understand our intended to perform. I come back to my primary message: victory comes first, entertaining football and it's together. If you follow this order, I'm convinced that I will remain very long at the club."

Pressure is Normal

Danny Rohl press conference

Martin required security protection to exit the Falkirk Stadium after his final game in charge.

We've seen how hostile environments can become at sports teams when results decline. Demonstrations have almost become a regular aspect of the matchday atmosphere on each part of the city these days.

As Rangers' youngest ever head coach, the question was posed about which attributes Rohl believes he has that would allow him to cope, never mind thrive, in among the most pressurized positions in UK soccer?

"I think expectations in football is normal," he commented. "You must learn that rapidly.
"I think certain individuals could reference my youth but I'm 16 years on this path. I had an excellent chance to work with the German club and serve as only an assistant manager, but I felt the reality to be a head coach and the pressure you face.
"When you start winning games and then certain people will say you must play attractive soccer. That becomes the stage but that's exactly my intention. I enjoy that challenge and I look forward for the future."

Thelwell Explains Chermiti Signing & Appointing His Son

Kevin Thelwell media conference

The media pack had numerous questions from journalists directed at Thelwell.

Significant attention has concerned the appointment of Robbie Thelwell as recruitment chief, with fans skeptical about his credentials for the position.

However, he defended and clarified the choice to bring Thelwell Jnr to Ibrox.

"It's always awkward to listen and optically I think we all agreed when we took this step to appoint Robbie that he'd be seen negatively," Thelwell stated.
"The truth of the situation is that we want to attract the very best talent to this club.
"My view on Robbie's career and situation is he required no family help in soccer.
"He served at Villa as a senior scout, he then moved to Norwich City as scouting chief and then was elevated to development role.
"Before we hiring him, two top division clubs sought to acquire him. Our approach from the beginning of proceedings was discuss with Patrick, Andrew and vice-chairman Paraag Marathe about this matter.
"I was highly transparent and I believe Robbie probably experienced a stricter process than anybody else employee by this football club.
"What I do know is that he'll labor 25/8 to achieve success for Rangers and I'm looking forward to him proving that he'll become an excellent staff member for the club."

Additionally, Thelwell supported the signing of striker Youssef Chermiti, who arrived at the club for an alleged first payment of £8m, having failed to score in 24 games for his previous club.

The sporting director who transferred the Portuguese youth international to Liverpool from Sporting Lisbon - once more for significant money in a £15m deal.

He was asked if he supports his expensive purchase, who is yet to register in seven matches for the club.

"Absolutely, very much so," Thelwell responded. "I think Youssef Chermiti is a player who's got great ability.
"I've never questioned him in any way. Similarly, I think Danny will help to get the best out of Youssef.
"It's very early days for the young player, he's a promising prospect and of course with young talents they occasionally require patience.
"But I'm certain throughout of his time here he'll demonstrate that he is very, very good footballer."

The CEO Acknowledges Supporters' Frustration and Anger

Stewart was also in the media firing line, given the vitriol that has been aimed his way by certain of the club's own supporters.

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

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

"I totally understand the disappointment and hurt that fans are feeling because results recently haven't been good enough and nobody's satisfied with those," he said.
"The hurt and frustration fans experience is mirrored inside the boardroom.
"Also understand that there must exist an outlet for those frustrations and as chief executive, that's me.
"I serve as focal point for those and my responsibility as a
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The writer

Laurie Davis

A seasoned gaming journalist with over a decade of experience covering UK online casinos and slot machines, specializing in strategy guides and game analysis.

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