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Major Insights from Rohl's Glasgow Rangers Press Conference

Danny Rohl media conference

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

  • Published
    2 hours ago

Nearly four and a half months following the previous coach's first press conference as the club's head coach, his replacement Danny Rohl met with the media at Ibrox for the initial occasion.

The scale of the challenge facing him is well known, given his predecessor's turbulent and unsuccessful four-month spell.

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

However, what precisely was revealed from the 36-year-old German's maiden media outing as the club's manager?

The Manager's Primary Focus - Victory is Everything

A single message came through loud and clear from Rohl's initial presentation before the local press - he recognizes the need to secure victories, and do so quickly.

His predecessor Martin lasted only 17 matches and 123 days as manager, so the question emerged about how long Rohl believes is realistic to turn around the underperforming team.

While skillfully sidestepping a specific response that might create later expectations, Rohl's message was very evident.

"Hopefully as soon as possible," he said. "That is essential.
"In this business you have not much opportunity. One can talk about long-term vision but it's understood it concerns immediate results and that period is about winning games. This is what I demand.
"One thing is also obvious - I need every squad member to comprehend our intended to perform. I return to my primary 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 Standard

Danny Rohl press conference

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

We've witnessed how hostile situations can turn at football clubs when performances decline. Demonstrations have almost become an expected aspect of the matchday experience on each part of the city currently.

As Rangers' youngest manager in history, the inquiry was posed about what qualities Rohl believes he has that would allow him to handle, never mind excel, in among the most pressurized positions in UK soccer?

"I think expectations in football is normal," he commented. "One needs to understand that very quickly.
"I believe some people might mention my age but I'm a decade and a half on this path. I had a great chance to be at the German club and serve as only an assistant coach, but I experienced the reality to manage a team and the demands you face.
"When you start winning games and then certain people claim you must play attractive soccer. That's the next stage but precisely what I want. I enjoy those expectations and I'm excited about the future."

The Sporting Director Defends Striker Acquisition & Appointing His Son

Kevin Thelwell media conference

The media pack had plenty of inquiries from journalists directed at Thelwell.

Much discussion has concerned the appointment of his son as head of recruitment, with supporters unconvinced about his qualifications for the position.

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

"It remains uncomfortable to hear and in appearance I think we all agreed when we made this step to hire him that he'd be seen in a particular way," Thelwell stated.
"The reality of the situation is that we aim to attract the very best players here.
"My view on his professional path and background is he didn't need my assistance in football.
"He served at Aston Villa as a senior scout, after which he moved to Norwich as scouting chief and then was elevated to development role.
"Prior to our recruited him, two top division teams sought to sign him. Our approach from the beginning of the process was consult with Patrick, Andrew and vice-chairman Paraag Marathe about this situation.
"I was highly open and I think he likely underwent a stricter process than any other employee by this football club.
"What I do know is that he will work constantly to be successful for Rangers and I'm looking forward to him proving that he's going to be an excellent staff member for the club."

Thelwell also defended the signing of forward Chermiti, who joined Rangers for an alleged first payment of eight million pounds, having failed to score in 24 games for Everton.

The sporting director who brought the Portuguese youth international to Merseyside from Sporting - once more for large funds in a £15m deal.

The question came if he stands by his multi-million pound purchase, who is yet to register in seven matches for Rangers.

"Yes, very much so," Thelwell responded. "I believe the striker is a player who's possesses great ability.
"I haven't questioned him whatsoever. Similarly, I think Danny will assist in maximize the potential out of Youssef.
"These are early days for the young player, he's a young talent and of course with young talents they occasionally take time.
"However, I'm convinced over the course of his career at the club he's going to prove that he is highly capable player."

The CEO Understands Supporters' Disappointment and Hurt

The chief executive was in the media firing line, given the vitriol that has been aimed his way by some club own supporters.

Additionally, there was a sign in the Sandy Jardine stand during the last draw with United suggesting Stewart - and Thelwell - to depart before they were packed for them.

Similar to the football director, Stewart didn't avoid the issue.

"I completely appreciate the disappointment and hurt that fans are experiencing because results this season haven't met expectations and no one is happy with them," he said.
"The pain and frustration they feel is mirrored within the boardroom.
"Also understand that there has to be a channel for that dissatisfaction and in my role, I'm responsible.
"I'm a focal point for such issues and my role as a
About the author

Teresa Maddox

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

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