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Major Insights from Danny Rohl's Rangers Media Unveiling

Danny Rohl media conference

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

  • Published
    2 hours ago

Nearly 135 days following Russell Martin's initial media briefing as Rangers head coach, his replacement Danny Rohl faced reporters at Ibrox for the initial occasion.

The scale of the challenge facing him is well known, considering his predecessor's turbulent and disappointing four-month tenure.

The ex- Wednesday manager was joined by club chairman Andrew Cavenagh, along with the much-criticized duo of football director Thelwell and CEO Patrick Stewart.

But what exactly did we learn from the young German's maiden media outing as Rangers boss?

Rohl's Main Priority - Victory is Everything

One thing emerged clearly from Rohl's initial presentation before the local press - he understands the necessity to win matches, and achieve this quickly.

His predecessor Russell Martin managed just 17 matches and four months as manager, so the inquiry arose about how long Rohl believes is reasonable to transform the struggling squad.

While skillfully sidestepping a direct answer that could bring future pressure, Rohl's communication was quite clear.

"With hope very quickly," he said. "This is essential.
"In football you have limited time. You can discuss long-term vision but we know it concerns the short-term and the short-term involves securing victories. This is what I demand.
"Another aspect remains clear - I require all players to comprehend our intended to perform. I return to my main theme: victory comes first, entertaining football and it's together. By following this sequence, I believe that I'll stay for years at the club."

Pressure is Standard

Danny Rohl press conference

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

We've witnessed how toxic environments can turn at sports teams when performances are poor. Protests have nearly become an expected part of the matchday atmosphere on both sides of Glasgow these days.

As Rangers' youngest manager in history, the inquiry asked about which attributes Rohl believes he possesses that would allow him to cope, let alone thrive, in one of the most pressurized positions in British football?

"In my opinion expectations in this business is normal," he commented. "You must learn that very quickly.
"I believe certain individuals might mention my youth but I have been 16 years in this career. I experienced an excellent opportunity to be at the German club and serve as only an assistant manager, but I felt what it means to manage a team and the demands involved.
"When you start winning games and then certain people will say you need to produce entertaining football. That becomes the phase but precisely my intention. I relish those expectations and I'm excited about the future."

Thelwell Explains Striker Acquisition & Appointing His Son

Kevin Thelwell media conference

There were numerous inquiries from the media directed at Thelwell.

Much discussion has concerned the appointment of Robbie Thelwell as head of recruitment, with fans unconvinced about his credentials for the position.

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

"It remains awkward to listen and optically I think everyone understood when we made this decision to appoint him that he'd be viewed negatively," Thelwell said.
"The truth of circumstances is that we want to attract the very best players here.
"My view on his professional path and background is he didn't need family help in football.
"He served at Aston Villa as a senior scout, after which he joined Norwich as head of scouting and then got promoted to player pathways manager.
"Prior to our hiring him, two Premier League teams sought to sign him. What we did from the start of proceedings was discuss with the CEO, the chairman and deputy chairman Paraag Marathe about this matter.
"I was extremely transparent and I think Robbie probably experienced a more rigorous process than anybody else employee by the team.
"I'm certain is that he will work 25/8 to be successful for Rangers and I anticipate to him demonstrating that he's going to be an excellent employee for Rangers."

Thelwell also defended the acquisition of forward Youssef Chermiti, who joined the club for a reported initial fee of eight million pounds, having failed to find the net in 24 appearances for his previous club.

It was Thelwell who brought the Portugal young international to Merseyside from Sporting Lisbon - again for significant money in a £15m deal.

He was asked if he stands by his expensive purchase, who is yet to score in seven matches for Rangers.

"Absolutely, very much so," Thelwell answered. "I believe Youssef Chermiti is a player who's possesses huge potential.
"I've never doubted him whatsoever. Again, I think Danny will assist in get the best out of Youssef.
"It's very initial stages for him, he's a promising prospect and of course with young talents they sometimes require patience.
"But I'm certain over the course of his career at the club he'll demonstrate that he is very, very good player."

Stewart Acknowledges Fan Frustration and Hurt

Stewart was also facing scrutiny, given the vitriol that has been directed his way by certain of the club's own supporters.

There was even a banner in the Sandy Jardine stand during the recent tie with Dundee United inviting Stewart - and the sporting director - to pack his bags before they were packed for him.

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

"I completely appreciate the disappointment and hurt that fans are experiencing 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.
"Recognize that there has to be an outlet for that dissatisfaction and in my role, I'm responsible.
"I'm a lightning rod for those and my role as a
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Phillip Webster

Tech journalist and blogger with a passion for innovative gadgets and digital culture.

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