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Important Lessons from Danny Rohl's Rangers Introduction

Danny Rohl media conference

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

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    2 hours ago

Exactly four and a half months after Russell Martin's first press conference as Rangers head coach, successor Danny Rohl met with the media at Ibrox for the initial occasion.

The scale of the challenge facing him is well known, considering his predecessor's chaotic and unsuccessful 123-day spell.

The ex- Sheffield Wednesday boss was accompanied by club chairman the chairman, along with the much-criticized duo of football director Thelwell and CEO Stewart.

But what exactly was revealed from the young German's maiden media outing as the club's manager?

The Manager's Main Priority - Winning is Everything

A single message emerged clearly from Rohl's first appearance in front of the Scottish media - he understands the necessity to secure victories, and do so quickly.

His predecessor Martin lasted only 17 games and four months as manager, so the inquiry emerged about how long the new man believes is realistic to turn around the struggling team.

Although deftly avoiding a specific response that could bring future pressure, the coach's message was very evident.

"With hope very quickly," he stated. "This is essential.
"In this business you have not much opportunity. You can discuss future plans but it's understood it's about the short-term and that period is about securing victories. This is my requirement.
"One thing remains obvious - I need every squad member to understand how we want to play. I return to my main theme: victory comes first, it's attractive and it's together. By following this sequence, I believe that I will remain for years at the club."

Pressure is Normal

Danny Rohl press conference

Martin required security protection to leave the Falkirk Stadium after his last match as manager.

We've witnessed how hostile situations can become at football clubs when results decline. Demonstrations have nearly become a regular part of the matchday experience on each part of Glasgow these days.

As Rangers' youngest manager in history, the inquiry was posed about what qualities the coach thinks he possesses that would enable him to cope, let alone excel, in one of the most pressurized positions in British football?

"In my opinion pressure in football is normal," he stated. "You must learn that very quickly.
"I think certain individuals could reference my youth but I have been a decade and a half in this career. I experienced a great opportunity to work with the German club and serve as just the assistant manager, but I experienced what it means to be a head coach and the demands you face.
"When you start winning games and then certain people will say you must play attractive soccer. That's the next phase but that's exactly what I want. I enjoy those expectations and I'm excited for what's ahead."

The Sporting Director Explains Striker Acquisition & Hiring His Son

Kevin Thelwell media conference

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

Much discussion has focused on the hiring of Robbie Thelwell as recruitment chief, with supporters skeptical about his credentials for the role.

Nevertheless, he justified and explained the decision to recruit Thelwell Jnr to the club.

"It remains uncomfortable to listen and optically I believe everyone understood when we took this decision to appoint him that he would be seen in a particular way," Thelwell said.
"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 family help in football.
"He served at Villa as a senior scout, he then moved to Norwich City as head of scouting and then was elevated to player pathways manager.
"Before we recruited him, two Premier League teams sought to acquire him. What we did right at the start of the process was consult with the CEO, the chairman and vice-chairman Marathe about this situation.
"I was highly open and I think he likely experienced a more rigorous process than anybody else employee by this football club.
"I'm certain is that he'll labor 25/8 to be successful for this football club and I anticipate to him demonstrating that he'll become a valuable employee for Rangers."

Additionally, Thelwell supported the signing of striker Youssef Chermiti, who joined the club for an alleged initial fee of eight million pounds, after failing to score in 24 games for his previous club.

The sporting director who transferred the Portugal youth international to Liverpool from Sporting - once more for large funds in a fifteen million pound transfer.

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

"Yes, completely," Thelwell responded. "I believe the striker represents who's got great ability.
"I've never questioned him in any way. Again, I believe the manager will help to get the best out of the player.
"It's very early days for him, he remains promising prospect and of course with young talents they sometimes take time.
"However, I'm convinced throughout of his time at the club he's going to prove that he's a very, very good footballer."

Stewart Understands Fan Disappointment and Hurt

Stewart was also facing scrutiny, considering the criticism that has been directed his way by certain of the club's own supporters.

There was even a banner in the stadium during the last tie with United inviting him - and the sporting director - to depart before they were packed for them.

Like his football director, the CEO did not evade the topic.

"I totally understand the frustration and anger that the supporters are experiencing because performances recently haven't been expectations and nobody's satisfied with those," he stated.
"The hurt and disappointment they feel is mirrored within the leadership.
"Also understand that there must exist a channel for that dissatisfaction and as chief executive, I'm responsible.
"I'm a focal point for such issues and my responsibility as a
Written by

Austin Monroe

A Toronto-based tech journalist and digital strategist with over a decade of experience covering emerging technologies and startup ecosystems across Canada.

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