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Important Lessons from Danny Rohl's Rangers Introduction

Danny Rohl media conference

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

  • Published
    2 hours ago

Nearly 135 days following Russell Martin's first press conference as the club's head coach, his replacement the German coach faced the media at Ibrox for the first time.

The scale of the challenge ahead of him is widely recognized, considering his predecessor's chaotic and disappointing four-month tenure.

The ex- Sheffield Wednesday boss was accompanied by club chairman Andrew Cavenagh, along with the much-criticized pair of football director Kevin Thelwell and chief executive Patrick Stewart.

However, what exactly did we learn from the 36-year-old coach's maiden media outing as the club's manager?

Rohl's Main Priority - Winning is Everything

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

His predecessor Russell Martin lasted only 17 matches and 123 days in charge, so the question emerged about what timeframe the new man thinks is realistic to transform the struggling team.

Although deftly sidestepping a specific response that could bring later expectations, the coach's message was very evident.

"Hopefully very quickly," he stated. "That is crucial.
"In this business you have limited opportunity. One can talk about future plans but we know it's about immediate results and the short-term involves securing victories. That is my requirement.
"One thing is also obvious - I require every squad member to understand how we want to perform. I return to my main theme: victory comes first, it's attractive and unity. By following this sequence, I believe that I'll stay for years at the club."

Expectations are Normal

Danny Rohl press conference

The previous manager needed a police escort to leave the stadium after his final match as manager.

We've seen how toxic environments can turn at football clubs when performances are poor. Protests have almost become a regular part of the matchday experience on both sides of Glasgow these days.

As Rangers' youngest manager in history, the inquiry asked about what qualities Rohl believes he possesses that would allow him to handle, let alone thrive, in among the highest-pressure positions in British football?

"In my opinion expectations in football is normal," he commented. "You must learn that very quickly.
"I think certain individuals might mention my age but I'm 16 years on this path. I experienced a great chance to work with the German club and be just the assistant manager, but I felt the reality to manage a team and the pressure involved.
"You begin getting results and then some critics will say you need to produce entertaining football. That becomes the stage but that's exactly what I want. I relish that challenge and I look forward about the future."

Thelwell Explains Striker Acquisition & Hiring Family Member

Kevin Thelwell media conference

There were plenty of inquiries from journalists directed at Thelwell.

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

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

"It remains uncomfortable to hear and in appearance I believe everyone understood when we took this decision to hire him that he would be seen in a particular way," Thelwell said.
"The truth of circumstances is that we aim to bring the very best players to this club.
"My perspective on his professional path and situation is he didn't need family help in soccer.
"He served at Aston Villa as a senior scout, he then moved to Norwich as scouting chief and then got promoted to player pathways manager.
"Before we hiring him, two Premier League clubs wanted to acquire him. Our approach from the start of the process was discuss with Patrick, Andrew and vice-chairman Marathe about this matter.
"I remained highly open and I believe he likely underwent a stricter procedure than any other who's employed by the team.
"I'm certain is that he'll labor 25/8 to be successful for this football club and I anticipate seeing him demonstrating that he's going to be an excellent staff member for Rangers."

Additionally, Thelwell defended the acquisition of striker Chermiti, who arrived at Rangers for an alleged first payment of eight million pounds, having failed to score in 24 games for his previous club.

It was Thelwell who transferred the Portugal young international to Merseyside from Sporting - again for large funds in a £15m deal.

He was asked if he stands by his expensive purchase, who hasn't yet score in seven matches for the club.

"Yes, very much so," Thelwell answered. "I think the striker represents who's got huge potential.
"I haven't questioned him in any way. Similarly, I think Danny will help to maximize the potential out of Youssef.
"These are initial stages for him, he remains young talent and naturally with young talents they occasionally take time.
"However, I'm convinced over the course of his career here he'll demonstrate that he is highly capable player."

Stewart Understands Fan Frustration and Hurt

Stewart was also in the media scrutiny, given the vitriol that has been aimed his way by certain club fans.

Additionally, there was a banner in the Sandy Jardine stand during the recent tie with Dundee United inviting him - and the sporting director - to depart before being removed for them.

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

"I totally appreciate the frustration and hurt that the supporters are feeling because results this season haven't been good enough and nobody's satisfied with those," he stated.
"The hurt and disappointment they feel is mirrored inside the leadership.
"Recognize that there has to be an outlet for those frustrations and in my role, that's me.
"I serve as lightning rod for those and my role as a
About the author

Taylor Hurst

A technology journalist and digital strategist with over a decade of experience covering emerging tech trends and their impact on society.

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