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Key Takeaways from Danny Rohl's Rangers Introduction

Danny Rohl media conference

Rohl addressed the media for around half an hour during his introductory press conference

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    2 hours ago

Nearly four and a half months after Russell Martin's initial media briefing as Rangers manager, his replacement the German coach met with the media at Rangers' stadium for the initial occasion.

The scale of the task facing him is widely recognized, given his predecessor's turbulent and disappointing 123-day tenure.

The ex- Sheffield Wednesday boss was joined by chairman Andrew Cavenagh, along with the frequently questioned pair of sporting director Thelwell and chief executive Stewart.

However, what exactly was revealed from the young German's maiden media outing as Rangers boss?

The Manager's Main Priority - Victory Comes First

One thing emerged clearly from the new coach's first appearance in front of the Scottish media - he recognizes the necessity to secure victories, and do so quickly.

His predecessor Martin managed just 17 games and four months in charge, so the question emerged about how long Rohl thinks is realistic to transform the struggling squad.

While skillfully sidestepping a direct answer that could bring later expectations, Rohl's communication was very evident.

"Hopefully as soon as possible," he said. "That is essential.
"In football you have not much time. You can discuss long-term vision but we know it concerns immediate results and the short-term involves securing victories. This is my requirement.
"One thing is also clear - I require all players to understand our intended to play. I come back to my main message: it's winning, entertaining football and it's together. By following this sequence, I'm convinced that I will remain for years here."

Expectations are Normal

Danny Rohl press conference

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

We've seen how toxic situations can turn at football clubs when results decline. Demonstrations have nearly become a regular part of game day experience on each part of the city these days.

As Rangers' youngest manager in history, the inquiry asked about which attributes Rohl believes he has that would enable him to cope, let alone excel, in among the most pressurized roles in UK soccer?

"I think expectations in this business are standard," he stated. "One needs to understand that very quickly.
"I believe some people might mention my age but I have been 16 years in this career. I experienced a great chance to work with Bayern Munich and be just the assistant manager, but I experienced the reality to be a head coach and the pressure involved.
"You begin winning games and then some critics will say you need to play attractive football. That's the next stage but precisely my intention. I relish those expectations and I look forward for the future."

The Sporting Director Explains Striker Acquisition & Appointing His Son

Kevin Thelwell media conference

There were plenty of questions from the media directed at Thelwell.

Significant attention has focused on the appointment of Robbie Thelwell as head of recruitment, with supporters skeptical about his qualifications for the position.

Nevertheless, he justified and explained the choice to recruit his son to the club.

"It's always uncomfortable to hear and in appearance I think we all agreed when we made this step to appoint him that he would be viewed in a particular way," Thelwell said.
"The truth of circumstances is that we aim to attract the top players here.
"My view on his professional path and background is he required no my assistance in soccer.
"He's worked at Aston Villa as a senior scout, he then joined Norwich as head of scouting and then was elevated to player pathways manager.
"Prior to our hiring him, multiple top division clubs wanted to sign him. What we did from the start of the process was consult with Patrick, the chairman and vice-chairman Marathe about this matter.
"I remained highly transparent and I believe Robbie probably underwent a stricter process than anybody else employee by this football club.
"I'm certain is that he'll labor constantly to achieve success for this football club and I anticipate seeing him proving that he'll become an excellent employee for Rangers."

Thelwell also defended the acquisition of forward Youssef Chermiti, who joined the club for a reported initial fee of £8m, having failed to score in 24 appearances for Everton.

It was Thelwell who brought the Portuguese youth international to Liverpool from Sporting - again for significant money in a fifteen million pound transfer.

He was asked if he supports his multi-million pound signing, who hasn't yet register in seven matches for the club.

"Absolutely, very much so," Thelwell responded. "I believe Youssef Chermiti is a player who's got huge potential.
"I haven't doubted him whatsoever. Again, I believe Danny will assist in maximize the potential out of the player.
"It's very initial stages for the young player, he remains young talent and of course with inexperienced players they occasionally require patience.
"But I'm certain throughout of his time here he'll demonstrate that he is highly capable footballer."

Stewart Acknowledges Fan Disappointment and Anger

Stewart was also facing scrutiny, given the vitriol that has been aimed his way by some of the club's fans.

There was even a sign in the stadium during the last draw with Dundee United suggesting him - and Thelwell - to depart before they were packed for him.

Similar to the football director, Stewart didn't evade the issue.

"I totally understand the frustration and hurt that fans are feeling because results this season haven't met expectations and no one is satisfied with those," he said.
"The pain and frustration fans experience is mirrored within the leadership.
"Recognize that there must exist a channel for that dissatisfaction and as chief executive, that's me.
"I serve as focal point for such issues and my role as a
RJ
Written by

Robert Johnson

Eleanor Vance is a numismatist with over 20 years of experience in coin appraisal and collection management.

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