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Key Takeaways from Rohl's Glasgow Rangers Media Unveiling

Danny Rohl media conference

Rohl spoke to journalists for around 30 minutes during his introductory press conference

  • Published
    2 hours ago

Nearly four and a half months after Russell Martin's initial media briefing as the club's manager, successor the German coach met with reporters at Ibrox for the first time.

The scale of the task ahead of him is well known, given his predecessor's turbulent and disappointing 123-day spell.

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

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

The Manager's Main Priority - Winning Comes First

One thing emerged loud and clear from Rohl's initial presentation in front of the local press - he understands the need to secure victories, and do so rapidly.

His predecessor Martin lasted only 17 games and four months as manager, so the question arose about how long Rohl believes is reasonable to turn around the underperforming team.

Although deftly avoiding a direct answer that might create later expectations, the coach's message was very evident.

"With hope very quickly," he stated. "This is essential.
"In this business you have not much time. You can discuss long-term vision but we know it concerns the short-term and that period involves winning games. That is my requirement.
"Another aspect is also clear - I need every squad member to understand how we want to play. I come back to my primary theme: victory comes first, it's attractive and unity. By following this order, I believe that I will remain very long here."

Pressure is Standard

Danny Rohl press conference

The previous manager needed security protection to exit the Falkirk Stadium after his last match as manager.

We've seen how hostile environments can become at football clubs when performances decline. Protests have nearly become a regular aspect of the matchday experience on both sides of Glasgow currently.

As the club's most youthful ever head coach, the question asked about what qualities the coach thinks he has that would enable him to cope, let alone excel, in one of the most pressurized positions in British football?

"In my opinion expectations in this business is normal," he commented. "One needs to understand that rapidly.
"I think certain individuals might mention my age but I'm a decade and a half 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 manage a team and the pressure you face.
"You begin getting results and then certain people will say you need to play attractive soccer. That's the next phase but that's exactly my intention. I relish that challenge and I'm excited about what's ahead."

The Sporting Director Defends Striker Acquisition & Hiring Family Member

Kevin Thelwell media conference

The media pack had numerous inquiries from the media for Thelwell.

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

Nevertheless, he defended and clarified the choice to recruit his son to Ibrox.

"It's always awkward to listen and in appearance I think we all agreed when we made this decision to hire him that he would be seen negatively," Thelwell said.
"The truth of circumstances is that we aim to attract the very best players to this club.
"My view on Robbie's career and situation is he didn't need family help in football.
"He's worked at Aston Villa as a senior scout, after which he joined Norwich as scouting chief and then got promoted to development role.
"Before we recruited him, multiple Premier League teams sought to acquire him. What we did from the start of the process was consult with the CEO, Andrew and vice-chairman Marathe about this matter.
"I remained extremely transparent and I think Robbie probably underwent a more rigorous process than any other who's employed by the team.
"I'm certain is that he will work 25/8 to be successful for Rangers and I'm looking forward seeing him demonstrating that he's going to be a valuable employee for the club."

Additionally, Thelwell supported the acquisition of striker Chermiti, who joined the club for an alleged first payment of £8m, having failed to find the net in 24 games for Everton.

It was Thelwell who brought the Portugal young international to Merseyside from Sporting - once more for significant money in a £15m transfer.

The question came if he stands by his expensive signing, who is yet to register in seven matches for Rangers.

"Yes, very much so," Thelwell responded. "I think Youssef Chermiti represents who's got huge potential.
"I haven't doubted him whatsoever. Again, I believe the manager will help to get the best out of Youssef.
"It's very early days for the young player, he's a young talent and of course with inexperienced players they occasionally take time.
"But I'm certain throughout of his time at the club he's going to prove that he's a highly capable footballer."

Stewart Understands Fan Disappointment and Anger

Stewart was also facing scrutiny, considering the criticism that has been directed his way by some club own supporters.

Additionally, there was a banner in the stadium during the last draw with Dundee United suggesting him - and Thelwell - to pack his bags before they were packed for him.

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

"I totally understand the disappointment and hurt that the supporters are feeling because performances this season haven't met expectations and nobody's satisfied with them," he stated.
"The hurt and disappointment they feel is matched within the boardroom.
"Recognize that there has to be an outlet for that dissatisfaction and as chief executive, I'm responsible.
"I'm a lightning rod for those and my responsibility as a
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Erin Curtis

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