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Key Takeaways from Rohl's Rangers Media Unveiling

Danny Rohl media conference

Rohl spoke to journalists for nearly half an hour during his first press conference

  • Published
    2 hours ago

Nearly 135 days following Russell Martin's first press conference as the club's head coach, successor Danny Rohl met with reporters at Ibrox for the first time.

The magnitude of the challenge facing him is widely recognized, given Martin's turbulent and unsuccessful 123-day tenure.

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

But what exactly was revealed from the 36-year-old coach's maiden media outing as the club's manager?

The Manager's Main Priority - Victory Comes First

One thing emerged clearly from Rohl's first appearance in front of the Scottish media - he understands the necessity to win matches, and do so quickly.

His predecessor Martin lasted only 17 matches and four months as manager, so the inquiry arose about what timeframe the new man believes is realistic to turn around the underperforming squad.

Although deftly sidestepping a direct answer that could bring later expectations, Rohl's communication was very evident.

"With hope very quickly," he said. "That is essential.
"In this business you have limited time. One can talk about future plans but we know it's about the short-term and the short-term is about winning games. This is my requirement.
"One thing remains obvious - I require all players to understand how we want to play. I come back to my main message: it's winning, it's attractive and it's together. By following this sequence, I'm convinced that I'll stay very long at the club."

Pressure is Standard

Danny Rohl press conference

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

We've seen how hostile environments can become at football clubs when results are poor. Demonstrations have nearly become an expected aspect of the matchday atmosphere on both sides of the city currently.

As the club's most youthful ever head coach, the inquiry asked about which attributes Rohl believes he has that would enable him to cope, never mind thrive, in among the highest-pressure positions in UK soccer?

"I think expectations in this business are standard," he stated. "You must learn that very quickly.
"I believe some people could reference my youth but I have been 16 years in this career. I experienced an excellent chance to be at the German club and serve as just the assistant manager, but I experienced what it means to be a head coach and the pressure involved.
"When you start winning games and then certain people will say you must produce entertaining soccer. That's the next phase but that's exactly what I want. I relish those expectations and I'm excited for the future."

The Sporting Director Defends Striker Acquisition & Appointing Family Member

Kevin Thelwell media conference

The media pack had numerous questions from the media directed at Thelwell.

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

However, he justified and explained the decision to recruit his son to the club.

"It remains awkward to hear and in appearance I think we all agreed when we took this step to appoint him that he would be viewed negatively," Thelwell stated.
"The truth of the situation is that we want to bring the very best players to this club.
"My view on Robbie's career and background is he didn't need my assistance in football.
"He's worked at Aston Villa as a senior scout, he then moved to Norwich City as scouting chief and then was elevated to player pathways manager.
"Prior to our recruited him, multiple Premier League clubs sought to sign him. Our approach from the start of the process was consult with Patrick, the chairman and vice-chairman Marathe about this matter.
"I remained extremely open and I think Robbie probably experienced a more rigorous process than any other employee by this football club.
"What I do know is that he'll labor 25/8 to achieve success for Rangers and I anticipate seeing him proving that he'll become an excellent staff member for Rangers."

Additionally, Thelwell supported the signing of striker Chermiti, who joined Rangers for an alleged initial fee of eight million pounds, having failed to find the net in 24 appearances for his previous club.

The sporting director who transferred the Portuguese young international to Liverpool from Sporting Lisbon - once more for large funds in a fifteen million pound deal.

He was asked if he stands by his multi-million pound purchase, who hasn't yet score in seven outings for the club.

"Yes, very much so," Thelwell responded. "I think the striker represents who's possesses great ability.
"I haven't questioned him whatsoever. Again, I believe the manager will help to maximize the potential out of the player.
"It's very initial stages for him, he remains promising prospect and of course with young talents they sometimes take time.
"But I'm certain over the course of his time at the club he'll demonstrate that he's a highly capable footballer."

The CEO Understands Fan Disappointment and Hurt

Stewart was also facing firing line, considering the vitriol that has been aimed his way by certain of the club's fans.

There was even a banner in the stadium during the last draw with United suggesting him - and the sporting director - to pack his bags before being removed for him.

Similar to the sporting director, the CEO did not avoid the issue.

"I totally understand the disappointment and hurt that the supporters are feeling because results recently haven't been good enough and no one is happy with those," he stated.
"The hurt and disappointment fans experience is matched within the boardroom.
"Also understand that there must exist an outlet for that dissatisfaction and as chief executive, I'm responsible.
"I serve as focal point for such issues and my role as a
Written by

Mikayla Brown

A professional poker player and strategist with over a decade of experience in high-stakes tournaments, specializing in Texas Hold'em and Omaha variants.

Pulse Poker Group

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