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Key Takeaways from Danny Rohl's Rangers Introduction

Danny Rohl media conference

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

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    2 hours ago

Exactly four and a half months after the previous coach's initial media briefing as Rangers head coach, his replacement the German coach faced reporters at Ibrox for the initial occasion.

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

The former Sheffield Wednesday manager was accompanied by chairman Andrew Cavenagh, along with the frequently questioned duo of sporting director Thelwell and CEO Patrick Stewart.

But what precisely was revealed from the young German's maiden media outing as Rangers boss?

Rohl's Primary Focus - Victory Comes First

One thing emerged loud and clear from the new coach's first appearance in front of the local press - he understands the need to secure victories, and do so rapidly.

His predecessor Martin managed just 17 games and four months as manager, so the question arose about what timeframe Rohl believes is reasonable to turn around the struggling team.

While skillfully sidestepping a direct answer that might create future pressure, the coach's message was quite clear.

"Hopefully as soon as possible," he stated. "This is essential.
"In football you have limited opportunity. You can discuss 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 need all players to comprehend how we want to perform. I come back to my main message: it's winning, entertaining football and it's together. By following this order, I'm convinced that I will remain for years at the club."

Expectations are Standard

Danny Rohl press conference

The previous manager needed security protection to leave the stadium after his last match as manager.

We've witnessed how toxic environments can turn at football clubs when performances decline. Demonstrations have almost become a regular part of the matchday experience on both sides of Glasgow these days.

As Rangers' youngest manager in history, the question asked about which attributes Rohl believes he possesses that would allow him to cope, let alone thrive, in among the most pressurized roles in UK soccer?

"I think expectations in football are standard," he commented. "You must learn that rapidly.
"I think some people might mention my age but I'm 16 years on this path. I experienced an excellent opportunity to work with Bayern Munich and be only an assistant manager, but I experienced what it means 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 those expectations and I look forward about what's ahead."

The Sporting Director Defends Striker Acquisition & Hiring Family Member

Kevin Thelwell media conference

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

Much discussion has focused on the hiring of Robbie Thelwell as head of recruitment, with fans unconvinced about his qualifications for the position.

However, he justified and explained the decision to recruit his son to Ibrox.

"It remains awkward to hear and optically I think everyone understood when we made this decision to appoint him that he'd be viewed in a particular way," Thelwell said.
"The reality of circumstances is that we aim to bring the top players here.
"My perspective on Robbie's career and background is he didn't need family help in football.
"He's worked at Aston Villa as a senior scout, he then joined Norwich City as head of scouting and then was elevated to development role.
"Prior to our hiring him, multiple Premier League teams wanted to acquire him. Our approach from the beginning of the process was consult with Patrick, Andrew and vice-chairman Marathe about this matter.
"I remained extremely open and I believe Robbie probably underwent a stricter process than anybody else 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 employee for the club."

Thelwell also defended the signing of forward Youssef Chermiti, who joined Rangers for an alleged initial fee of eight million pounds, after failing to find the net in 24 appearances for his previous club.

It was Thelwell who transferred the Portugal young international to Merseyside from Sporting Lisbon - again for large funds in a £15m transfer.

The question came if he supports his expensive signing, who hasn't yet score in seven matches for Rangers.

"Absolutely, completely," Thelwell responded. "I think Youssef Chermiti is a player who's possesses great ability.
"I haven't questioned him whatsoever. Similarly, I believe Danny will help to get the best out of Youssef.
"It's very initial stages for the young player, he's a promising prospect and of course with young talents they sometimes take time.
"But I'm certain throughout of his career here he'll demonstrate that he is very, very good player."

The CEO Acknowledges Supporters' Disappointment and Hurt

The chief executive was in the media firing line, considering the vitriol that has been aimed at him by some of the club's fans.

Additionally, there was a banner in the stadium during the recent draw with United suggesting him - and Thelwell - to pack his bags before they were packed for them.

Similar to the sporting director, the CEO did not avoid the topic.

"I completely understand the disappointment and hurt that fans are feeling because results this season haven't met good enough and no one is happy with them," he said.
"The hurt and frustration they feel is matched within the boardroom.
"Also understand that there has to be an outlet for that dissatisfaction and as chief executive, that's me.
"I'm a lightning rod for such issues and my responsibility as a
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Samuel Day

A tech journalist and software developer with over 8 years of experience covering emerging technologies and digital trends across Europe.

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