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Key Takeaways from Rohl's Glasgow Rangers Introduction

Danny Rohl media conference

Rohl spoke to journalists for nearly 30 minutes during his first media appearance

  • Published
    2 hours ago

Exactly 135 days after Russell Martin's initial media briefing as Rangers manager, successor the German coach faced reporters at Rangers' stadium for the initial occasion.

The scale of the task ahead of him is well known, considering his predecessor's turbulent and unsuccessful 123-day tenure.

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

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

Rohl's Primary Focus - Winning Comes First

One thing came through loud and clear from the new coach's first appearance in front of the Scottish media - he understands the need to secure victories, and do so quickly.

The previous manager Russell Martin managed just 17 games and 123 days in charge, so the question arose about how long the new man believes is reasonable to turn around the underperforming team.

While skillfully avoiding a direct answer that could bring future pressure, the coach's message was very evident.

"Hopefully very quickly," he stated. "This is crucial.
"In this business you have limited time. You can discuss long-term vision but we know it's about the short-term and the short-term involves winning games. This is what I demand.
"Another aspect is also clear - I need every squad member to understand our intended to play. I come back to my primary theme: it's winning, entertaining football and unity. By following this order, I'm convinced that I'll stay very long here."

Pressure is Normal

Danny Rohl press conference

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

We've seen how toxic environments can become at sports teams when results are poor. Demonstrations have nearly become an expected part of game day atmosphere on each part of Glasgow currently.

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

"In my opinion pressure in this business are standard," he commented. "You must learn that rapidly.
"I think certain individuals could reference my youth but I have been 16 years in this career. I had a great chance to be at Bayern Munich and serve as only an assistant coach, but I felt the reality to be a head coach and the demands involved.
"You begin getting results and then some critics claim you need to produce entertaining football. That's the next phase but that's exactly what I want. I relish those expectations and I'm excited for what's ahead."

The Sporting Director Defends Striker Acquisition & Appointing His Son

Kevin Thelwell media conference

The media pack had numerous inquiries from journalists for Thelwell.

Significant attention has concerned the appointment of Robbie Thelwell as head of recruitment, with supporters unconvinced about his credentials for the role.

However, he justified and clarified the choice to recruit his son to Ibrox.

"It's always awkward to hear and optically I think everyone understood when we made this step to hire Robbie that he would be seen negatively," Thelwell stated.
"The truth of circumstances is that we aim to attract the top players here.
"My view on his professional path and background is he required no my assistance in soccer.
"He's worked at Villa as head scout, after which he moved to Norwich City as scouting chief and then was elevated to development role.
"Before we hiring him, multiple top division clubs sought to sign him. What we did right at the start of proceedings was discuss with Patrick, Andrew and vice-chairman Paraag Marathe about this situation.
"I remained highly open and I believe Robbie probably underwent a stricter process than anybody else employee by the team.
"I'm certain is that he will work 25/8 to be successful for this football club and I anticipate seeing him proving that he'll become a valuable employee for Rangers."

Additionally, Thelwell supported the acquisition of striker Chermiti, who joined Rangers for a reported initial fee of £8m, having failed to score in 24 appearances for his previous club.

The sporting director who brought the Portugal young international to Merseyside from Sporting Lisbon - once more for large funds in a fifteen million pound transfer.

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

"Absolutely, completely," Thelwell answered. "I think the striker represents who's got huge potential.
"I haven't questioned him in any way. Again, I believe Danny will assist in maximize the potential out of the player.
"It's very initial stages for him, he's a promising prospect and naturally with inexperienced players they occasionally require patience.
"However, I'm convinced throughout of his time at the club he'll demonstrate that he's a highly capable player."

The CEO Acknowledges Supporters' Frustration and Anger

Stewart was also in the media firing line, considering the criticism that has been directed at him by some club fans.

Additionally, there was a sign in the Sandy Jardine stand during the recent draw with Dundee United suggesting Stewart - and the sporting director - to pack his bags before being removed for them.

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

"I completely appreciate the frustration and hurt that the supporters are experiencing because results this season haven't been good enough and nobody's happy with those," he said.
"The hurt and disappointment fans experience is mirrored inside the boardroom.
"Recognize that there has to be an outlet for those frustrations and in my role, I'm responsible.
"I serve as lightning rod for those and my responsibility as a
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Danielle Weber

A digital strategist with over a decade of experience in SEO and content marketing, passionate about helping businesses thrive online.

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