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Key Takeaways from Danny Rohl's Glasgow Rangers Press Conference

Danny Rohl media conference

Rohl addressed the media for approximately half an hour during his introductory media appearance

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    2 hours ago

Exactly 135 days following Russell Martin's initial media briefing as the club's manager, his replacement the German coach met with the media at Ibrox for the first time.

The scale of the task ahead of him is well known, considering Martin's chaotic and unsuccessful four-month tenure.

The former Sheffield Wednesday manager was accompanied by club chairman the chairman, along with the frequently questioned pair of sporting director Thelwell and chief executive Patrick Stewart.

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

The Manager's Main Priority - Winning is Everything

One thing emerged clearly from Rohl's first appearance before the local press - he recognizes the necessity to win matches, and do so rapidly.

His predecessor Russell Martin lasted only 17 matches and four months as manager, so the question arose about what timeframe Rohl thinks is realistic to transform the underperforming team.

Although deftly avoiding a direct answer that could bring later expectations, the coach's communication was very evident.

"Hopefully as soon as possible," he said. "This is crucial.
"In this business you have limited time. You can discuss long-term vision but we know it's about immediate results and that period is about winning games. That is what I demand.
"One thing remains clear - I need every squad member to understand our intended to play. I return to my primary message: victory comes first, it's attractive and it's together. If you follow this order, I'm convinced that I'll stay for years at the club."

Expectations are Standard

Danny Rohl press conference

Martin required a police escort to leave the Falkirk Stadium after his final match as manager.

We've witnessed how hostile situations can become at football clubs when performances decline. Demonstrations have almost become a regular part of game day experience on each part of the city these days.

As the club's most youthful ever head coach, the question asked about what qualities the coach thinks he has that would enable him to cope, never mind thrive, in one of the most pressurized positions in UK soccer?

"In my opinion expectations in football are standard," he stated. "One needs to understand that rapidly.
"I think some people might mention my age but I'm 16 years on this path. I had an excellent chance to work with the German club and serve as only an assistant manager, but I felt the reality to manage a team and the demands you face.
"You begin winning games and then some critics will say you must play attractive soccer. That's the next stage but precisely my intention. I enjoy that challenge and I look forward about what's ahead."

Thelwell Defends Striker Acquisition & Appointing Family Member

Kevin Thelwell media conference

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

Much discussion has concerned the hiring of Robbie Thelwell as recruitment chief, with supporters unconvinced about his qualifications for the role.

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

"It's always awkward to hear and in appearance I think we all agreed when we made this step to appoint Robbie that he would be seen in a particular way," Thelwell said.
"The reality of the situation is that we want to bring the very best players here.
"My perspective on his professional path and background is he didn't need my assistance in football.
"He's worked at Villa as head scout, he then moved to Norwich as head of scouting and then was elevated to development role.
"Before we recruited him, two Premier League clubs wanted to sign him. What we did right at the beginning of proceedings was consult with the CEO, the chairman and vice-chairman Marathe about this situation.
"I remained highly open and I believe Robbie probably underwent a more rigorous process than any other who's employed by the team.
"I'm certain is that he'll labor constantly to achieve success for Rangers and I'm looking forward to him proving that he'll become a valuable employee for the club."

Thelwell also defended the signing of forward Chermiti, who arrived at the club for a reported initial fee of £8m, having failed to find the net in 24 games for his previous club.

The sporting director who brought the Portuguese young international to Merseyside from Sporting - again for significant money in a £15m transfer.

He was asked 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 think the striker is a player who's possesses huge potential.
"I've never questioned him whatsoever. Similarly, I think the manager will assist in maximize the potential out of the player.
"It's very initial stages for him, he remains promising prospect and of course with inexperienced players they occasionally take time.
"However, I'm convinced throughout of his career here he'll demonstrate that he's a very, very good footballer."

The CEO Understands Fan Disappointment and Anger

The chief executive was facing firing line, considering the vitriol that has been aimed at him by some club fans.

There was even a banner in the Sandy Jardine stand during the last tie with United suggesting him - and Thelwell - to depart before they were packed for him.

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

"I completely appreciate the frustration and anger that the supporters are experiencing because results recently haven't met good enough and nobody's happy with them," he stated.
"The pain and disappointment they feel is mirrored within the leadership.
"Also understand that there must exist an outlet for that dissatisfaction and as chief executive, I'm responsible.
"I'm a lightning rod for those and my role as a
By

Brent Smith

Astrophysicist and space journalist with over 15 years of experience covering lunar missions and interstellar phenomena.

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