Important Lessons from Rohl's Rangers Media Unveiling
Rohl addressed journalists for approximately 30 minutes during his introductory media appearance
- Published2 hours ago
Nearly four and a half months following Russell Martin's initial media briefing as Rangers head coach, successor Danny Rohl faced reporters at Ibrox for the initial occasion.
The magnitude of the task facing him is well known, considering his predecessor's turbulent and unsuccessful 123-day tenure.
The ex- Sheffield Wednesday boss was joined by chairman Andrew Cavenagh, along with the frequently questioned pair of sporting director Kevin Thelwell and CEO Stewart.
But what precisely was revealed from the young German's first public appearance as Rangers boss?
The Manager's Primary Focus - Winning is Everything
A single message came through loud and clear from Rohl's initial presentation before the Scottish media - he recognizes the necessity to secure victories, and do so rapidly.
His predecessor Russell Martin lasted only 17 games and 123 days in charge, so the question emerged about what timeframe the new man thinks is realistic to transform the struggling squad.
While skillfully avoiding a specific response that might create later expectations, the coach's communication was quite clear.
"With hope very quickly," he said. "This is crucial.
"In this business you have not much opportunity. One can talk about long-term vision but we know it concerns immediate results and that period is about winning games. That is what I demand.
"One thing is also clear - I require all players to understand how we want to play. I return to my primary message: it's winning, it's attractive and it's together. By following this order, I believe that I will remain for years here."
Expectations are Standard
The previous manager needed a police escort to leave the stadium after his final match as manager.
We've witnessed how toxic situations can turn at sports teams when performances decline. Protests have nearly become a regular aspect of the matchday experience on both sides of Glasgow these days.
As Rangers' youngest ever head coach, the inquiry asked about which attributes Rohl believes he has that would enable him to cope, let alone excel, in one of the most pressurized roles in British football?
"In my opinion pressure in football is normal," he commented. "You must learn that very quickly.
"I believe some people might mention my youth but I have been a decade and a half in this career. I had an excellent chance to be at the German club and serve as just the assistant coach, but I experienced what it means to be a head coach and the pressure involved.
"When you start winning games and then some critics claim you must play attractive soccer. That becomes the stage but precisely my intention. I enjoy that challenge and I look forward for what's ahead."
Thelwell Defends Chermiti Signing & Hiring His Son
There were plenty of inquiries from journalists for Thelwell.
Much discussion has focused on the appointment of Robbie Thelwell as head of recruitment, with fans skeptical about his credentials for the position.
However, he defended and explained the choice to bring his son to the club.
"It's always uncomfortable to hear and in appearance I think everyone understood when we took this step to appoint Robbie that he'd be viewed negatively," Thelwell stated.
"The truth of the situation is that we aim to attract the very best talent here.
"My perspective on his professional path and situation is he required no family help in soccer.
"He's worked at Aston Villa as head scout, after which he joined Norwich City as scouting chief and then was elevated to player pathways manager.
"Before we hiring him, multiple top division clubs wanted to acquire him. Our approach from the start of proceedings was consult with Patrick, Andrew and deputy chairman Paraag Marathe about this situation.
"I remained extremely transparent and I think he likely experienced a more rigorous process than anybody else employee by the team.
"What I do know is that he will work constantly to be successful for this football club and I anticipate to him proving that he'll become an excellent employee for Rangers."
Additionally, Thelwell defended the acquisition of forward Chermiti, who arrived at the club for a reported initial fee of eight million pounds, after failing to find the net in 24 appearances for his previous club.
The sporting director who transferred the Portugal youth international to Liverpool from Sporting Lisbon - again for large funds in a fifteen million pound deal.
He was asked if he supports his expensive signing, who is yet to score in seven outings for the club.
"Yes, very much so," Thelwell responded. "I think the striker is a player who's possesses great ability.
"I've never questioned him whatsoever. Again, I think the manager will help to get the best out of Youssef.
"It's very early days for him, he's a promising prospect and of course with inexperienced players they sometimes require patience.
"However, I'm convinced over the course of his career at the club he's going to prove that he's a very, very good footballer."
Stewart Acknowledges Supporters' Disappointment and Anger
Stewart was also in the media scrutiny, considering the criticism that has been directed his way by some club own supporters.
Additionally, there was a sign in the stadium during the recent tie with Dundee United inviting him - and Thelwell - to depart before being removed for them.
Like his football director, Stewart didn't evade the topic.
"I completely appreciate the disappointment and hurt that the supporters are feeling because results recently haven't met expectations and no one is happy with those," he stated.
"The pain and frustration fans experience is matched inside the leadership.
"Recognize that there has to be a channel for those frustrations and as chief executive, that's me.
"I'm a focal point for those and my role as a