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Key Takeaways from Rohl's Rangers Press Conference

Danny Rohl media conference

Rohl spoke to the media for nearly 30 minutes during his introductory media appearance

  • Published
    2 hours ago

Nearly 135 days after Russell Martin's first press conference as the club's manager, his replacement Danny Rohl met with reporters at Rangers' stadium for the first time.

The scale of the task facing him is well known, considering his predecessor's chaotic and disappointing four-month spell.

The former Wednesday manager was accompanied by chairman the chairman, along with the much-criticized duo of sporting director Thelwell and CEO Patrick Stewart.

But what exactly did we learn from the 36-year-old German's first public appearance as the club's manager?

Rohl's Primary Focus - Victory Comes First

One thing came through clearly from the new coach's first appearance in front of the local press - he understands the necessity to win matches, and achieve this quickly.

His predecessor Russell Martin lasted only 17 matches and 123 days as manager, so the inquiry emerged about what timeframe the new man thinks is realistic to transform the underperforming team.

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

"Hopefully as soon as possible," he said. "This is essential.
"In this business you have limited time. You can discuss future plans but it's understood it's about immediate results and the short-term is about winning games. This is my requirement.
"One thing is also clear - I require all players to comprehend our intended to play. I come back to my main theme: it's winning, it's attractive and unity. If you follow this sequence, I'm convinced that I will remain for years at the club."

Pressure is Normal

Danny Rohl press conference

The previous manager needed a police escort to leave the stadium after his last game in charge.

We've witnessed how hostile situations can turn at sports teams when performances are poor. Demonstrations have nearly become an expected part of the matchday experience on each part of the city currently.

As Rangers' youngest ever head coach, the question was posed about what qualities Rohl believes he has that would allow him to cope, never mind excel, in one of the most pressurized positions in UK soccer?

"In my opinion pressure in this business is normal," he commented. "You must learn that rapidly.
"I think some people might mention my youth but I have been a decade and a half in this career. I experienced a great chance to work with the German club and be just the assistant coach, but I experienced the reality to manage a team and the pressure involved.
"When you start winning games and then some critics claim you must play attractive football. That becomes the stage but precisely my intention. I relish those expectations and I'm excited for the future."

The Sporting Director Defends Chermiti Signing & Hiring Family Member

Kevin Thelwell media conference

There were numerous inquiries from the media for Thelwell.

Significant attention has focused on the hiring of his son as recruitment chief, with supporters unconvinced about his credentials for the position.

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

"It remains awkward to listen and in appearance I believe we all agreed when we took this step to appoint Robbie that he would be seen in a particular way," Thelwell said.
"The reality of circumstances is that we want to attract the top players to this club.
"My view on his professional path and background is he didn't need my assistance in football.
"He's worked at Villa as head scout, he then joined Norwich City as head of scouting and then was elevated to player pathways manager.
"Before we recruited him, two top division clubs sought to acquire him. Our approach from the beginning of the process was discuss with Patrick, Andrew and deputy chairman Paraag Marathe about this situation.
"I remained extremely transparent and I believe Robbie probably underwent a more rigorous process than any other employee by this football club.
"I'm certain is that he will work constantly to achieve success for Rangers and I anticipate seeing him proving that he'll become an excellent employee for the club."

Additionally, Thelwell defended the signing of forward Youssef Chermiti, who arrived at Rangers for a reported first payment of eight million pounds, having failed to find the net in 24 games for his previous club.

It was Thelwell who brought the Portugal youth international to Merseyside from Sporting - again for large funds in a fifteen million pound transfer.

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

"Absolutely, very much so," Thelwell responded. "I believe Youssef Chermiti represents who's got huge potential.
"I haven't doubted him in any way. Similarly, I believe Danny will help to maximize the potential out of Youssef.
"These are early days for the young player, he remains promising prospect and naturally with inexperienced players they occasionally require patience.
"But I'm certain throughout of his time at the club he'll demonstrate that he is very, very good player."

The CEO Acknowledges Supporters' Disappointment and Hurt

The chief executive was facing scrutiny, considering the criticism that has been aimed at him by certain club fans.

Additionally, there was a banner in the stadium during the last draw with United inviting Stewart - and the sporting director - to depart before they were packed for him.

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

"I completely understand the disappointment and anger that the supporters are experiencing because performances recently haven't met expectations and no one is satisfied with them," he stated.
"The hurt and disappointment fans experience is mirrored within the leadership.
"Also understand that there has to be a channel for that dissatisfaction and as chief executive, that's me.
"I serve as lightning rod for such issues and my responsibility as a
The writer

Brian Valdez

Wildlife biologist and sloth conservation advocate with over a decade of field research in Central and South American rainforests.

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