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Important Lessons from Danny Rohl's Rangers Press Conference

Danny Rohl media conference

Rohl addressed journalists for nearly 30 minutes during his introductory press conference

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    2 hours ago

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

The magnitude of the task facing him is well known, given Martin's turbulent and unsuccessful 123-day tenure.

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

However, what exactly was revealed from the 36-year-old coach's first public appearance as the club's manager?

Rohl's Primary Focus - Victory Comes First

One thing emerged loud and clear from Rohl's initial presentation in front of the local press - he recognizes the need to secure victories, and achieve this rapidly.

The previous manager Russell Martin managed just 17 games and 123 days in charge, so the inquiry arose about what timeframe Rohl believes is reasonable to transform the struggling squad.

Although deftly sidestepping a specific response that could bring future pressure, Rohl's communication was very evident.

"With hope very quickly," he said. "That is essential.
"In football you have not much time. You can discuss future plans but we know it's about the short-term and the short-term involves securing victories. This is my requirement.
"One thing remains obvious - I require every squad member to comprehend how we want to perform. I come back to my primary message: victory comes first, it's attractive and unity. By following this order, I'm convinced that I'll stay for years here."

Pressure is Standard

Danny Rohl press conference

Martin required security protection to exit the stadium after his last game in charge.

We've seen how hostile environments can become at football clubs when performances are poor. Protests have almost become an expected aspect of the matchday atmosphere on each part of Glasgow currently.

As Rangers' youngest ever head coach, the question asked about which attributes Rohl believes he has that would allow him to cope, let alone excel, in among the highest-pressure positions in British football?

"I think pressure in football is normal," he commented. "One needs to understand that rapidly.
"I think certain individuals might mention my age but I'm a decade and a half on this path. I experienced a great opportunity to be at Bayern Munich and serve as just the assistant manager, but I experienced the reality to manage a team and the demands you face.
"You begin winning games and then certain people claim you must play attractive soccer. That's the next phase but that's exactly what I want. I relish those expectations and I look forward about the future."

Thelwell Explains Chermiti Signing & Appointing Family Member

Kevin Thelwell media conference

There were numerous questions from journalists directed at Thelwell.

Much discussion has concerned the appointment of Robbie Thelwell as head of recruitment, with supporters skeptical about his qualifications for the role.

However, he defended and explained the choice to recruit his son to Ibrox.

"It remains uncomfortable to listen and optically I think everyone understood when we took this decision to appoint him that he would be viewed negatively," Thelwell said.
"The reality of the situation is that we want to bring the very best players to this club.
"My view on Robbie's career and situation is he didn't need family help in soccer.
"He served at Aston Villa as a senior scout, after which he moved to Norwich as scouting chief and then got promoted to player pathways manager.
"Prior to our hiring him, two Premier League clubs wanted to acquire him. Our approach right at the start of proceedings was consult with Patrick, Andrew and vice-chairman Marathe about this situation.
"I remained highly open and I believe he likely underwent a more rigorous procedure than anybody else who's employed by the team.
"What I do know is that he will work 25/8 to be successful for Rangers and I'm looking forward to him demonstrating that he's going to be an excellent employee for the club."

Additionally, Thelwell defended the acquisition of striker Chermiti, who arrived at the club for a reported first payment of £8m, having failed to find the net in 24 appearances for his previous club.

It was Thelwell who transferred the Portugal young international to Liverpool from Sporting Lisbon - once more for large funds in a fifteen million pound deal.

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

"Absolutely, completely," Thelwell answered. "I think Youssef Chermiti represents who's possesses huge potential.
"I haven't questioned him in any way. Similarly, I believe Danny will assist in get the best out of Youssef.
"It's very early days for the young player, he's a promising prospect and of course with young talents they occasionally take time.
"But I'm certain over the course of his time at the club he's going to prove that he's a highly capable footballer."

The CEO Acknowledges Fan Frustration and Anger

The chief executive was facing scrutiny, given the criticism that has been aimed at him by some club own supporters.

There was even a banner in the Sandy Jardine stand during the recent tie with United suggesting him - and Thelwell - to pack his bags before being removed for him.

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

"I completely understand the disappointment and hurt that the supporters are experiencing because performances this season haven't been good enough and no one is satisfied with them," he said.
"The pain and frustration they feel is mirrored inside the boardroom.
"Also understand that there has to be an outlet for those frustrations and in my role, that's me.
"I serve as lightning rod for such issues and my responsibility as a
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Nicole Miller

A tech enthusiast and digital strategist with over a decade of experience in analyzing emerging technologies and their impact on society.

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