Major Insights from Danny Rohl's Rangers Press Conference
Rohl addressed the media for around half an hour during his first press conference
- Published2 hours ago
Exactly four and a half months after the previous coach's first press conference as Rangers head coach, successor Danny Rohl faced reporters at Rangers' stadium for the first time.
The scale of the challenge facing him is widely recognized, given his predecessor's turbulent and unsuccessful four-month spell.
The former Wednesday boss was joined by club chairman the chairman, along with the frequently questioned duo of sporting director Thelwell and chief executive Stewart.
However, what precisely was revealed from the young German's maiden media outing as the club's manager?
Rohl's Main Priority - Victory Comes First
A single message came through clearly from Rohl's initial presentation before the Scottish media - he understands the necessity to secure victories, and do so rapidly.
The previous manager Russell Martin lasted only 17 matches and 123 days in charge, so the question emerged about what timeframe Rohl believes is reasonable to turn around the underperforming team.
Although deftly sidestepping a specific response that could bring later expectations, the coach's message was quite clear.
"With hope as soon as possible," he said. "That is crucial.
"In this business you have limited opportunity. You can discuss future plans but we know it's about the short-term and that period involves winning games. This is what I demand.
"Another aspect remains clear - I need every squad member to understand our intended to play. I come back to my primary message: it's winning, entertaining football and it's together. If you follow this order, I believe that I will remain very long at the club."
Expectations are Standard
Martin required security protection to leave the Falkirk Stadium after his last game in charge.
We've witnessed how toxic situations can become at sports teams when performances decline. Protests have nearly become an expected part of the matchday atmosphere on both sides of Glasgow currently.
As the club's most youthful ever head coach, the question was posed about which attributes Rohl believes he has that would enable him to cope, never mind thrive, in one of the highest-pressure roles in British football?
"In my opinion pressure in football are standard," he commented. "You must learn that very quickly.
"I think certain individuals might mention my youth but I have been a decade and a half in this career. I experienced an excellent opportunity to be at Bayern Munich and serve as just the assistant coach, but I experienced the reality to be a head coach and the demands you face.
"You begin getting results and then some critics will say you need to play attractive football. That's the next stage but that's exactly what I want. I enjoy that challenge and I'm excited about what's ahead."
Thelwell Explains Chermiti Signing & Hiring Family Member
There were plenty of questions from the media directed at Thelwell.
Much discussion has concerned the hiring of his son as recruitment chief, with supporters unconvinced about his qualifications for the role.
However, he justified and explained the choice to recruit his son to Ibrox.
"It remains uncomfortable to listen and optically I believe everyone understood when we took this decision to hire Robbie that he'd be viewed in a particular way," Thelwell stated.
"The truth of circumstances is that we want to bring the very best talent here.
"My perspective on his professional path and background is he didn't need my assistance in soccer.
"He served at Villa as head scout, he then moved to Norwich City as head of scouting and then got promoted to player pathways manager.
"Prior to our recruited him, multiple Premier League teams sought to acquire him. What we did from the start of the process was consult with Patrick, Andrew and vice-chairman Paraag Marathe about this situation.
"I was extremely open and I think he likely underwent a stricter procedure than any other who's employed by this football club.
"What I do know is that he'll labor constantly to be successful for Rangers and I'm looking forward to him demonstrating that he'll become a valuable staff member for the club."
Additionally, Thelwell supported the acquisition of striker Youssef Chermiti, who joined the club for an alleged initial fee of £8m, after failing to score in 24 appearances for his previous club.
It was Thelwell who brought the Portuguese young international to Merseyside from Sporting Lisbon - once more for significant money in a fifteen million pound deal.
The question came if he stands by his expensive purchase, who hasn't yet register in seven matches for the club.
"Yes, completely," Thelwell responded. "I think the striker represents who's got huge potential.
"I've never doubted him in any way. Similarly, I believe Danny will help to get the best out of Youssef.
"These are early days for the young player, he remains promising prospect and of course with young talents they sometimes take time.
"But I'm certain over the course of his time here he's going to prove that he is very, very good player."
Stewart Acknowledges Fan Frustration and Hurt
The chief executive was in the media scrutiny, considering the criticism that has been aimed at him by some club fans.
There was even a sign in the stadium during the last tie with Dundee United suggesting Stewart - and Thelwell - to depart before being removed for them.
Similar to the football director, Stewart didn't avoid the issue.
"I completely appreciate the frustration and hurt that fans are feeling because performances this season haven't met expectations and no one is happy with them," he said.
"The hurt and frustration fans experience is mirrored within the boardroom.
"Recognize that there has to be an outlet for those frustrations and as chief executive, I'm responsible.
"I'm a lightning rod for those and my responsibility as a