Important Lessons from Danny Rohl's Glasgow Rangers Press Conference

Danny Rohl media conference

Rohl spoke to journalists for around half an hour during his introductory media appearance

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

The scale of the task facing him is widely recognized, considering Martin's chaotic and unsuccessful four-month tenure.

The ex- Sheffield Wednesday boss was joined by chairman Andrew Cavenagh, along with the much-criticized duo of sporting director Kevin Thelwell and CEO Stewart.

But what exactly did we learn from the young coach's first public appearance as the club's manager?

The Manager's Primary Focus - Victory Comes First

A single message came through clearly from Rohl's initial presentation in front of the Scottish media - he understands the necessity to win matches, and do so quickly.

His predecessor Martin managed just 17 matches and 123 days as manager, so the question emerged about how long the new man thinks is realistic to transform the struggling squad.

While skillfully sidestepping a direct answer that might create future pressure, the coach's communication was very evident.

"Hopefully as soon as possible," he stated. "That is essential.
"In football you have limited opportunity. You can discuss long-term vision but we know it's about the short-term and that period involves securing victories. This is what I demand.
"Another aspect is also obvious - I need all players to understand how we want to play. I return to my main theme: victory comes first, entertaining football and it's together. If you follow this sequence, I'm convinced that I will remain very long here."

Pressure is Standard

Danny Rohl press conference

Martin required a police escort to exit the Falkirk Stadium after his last match as manager.

We've witnessed how hostile situations can turn at football clubs when results are poor. Protests have almost become a regular aspect 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 allow him to cope, never mind thrive, in among the most pressurized roles in UK soccer?

"In my opinion pressure in this business are standard," he stated. "You must learn that rapidly.
"I believe some people could reference my age but I have been a decade and a half on this path. I experienced a great chance to work with the German club and serve as just the assistant manager, but I experienced the reality to manage a team and the pressure you face.
"When you start winning games and then some critics claim you need to play attractive soccer. That's the next stage but that's exactly what I want. I relish those expectations and I look forward for the future."

The Sporting Director Defends Striker Acquisition & Hiring Family Member

Kevin Thelwell media conference

The media pack had numerous inquiries from journalists for Thelwell.

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

However, he justified and explained the choice to bring his son to Ibrox.

"It's always awkward to hear and in appearance I think we all agreed when we took this decision to hire Robbie that he'd be viewed negatively," Thelwell said.
"The reality of the situation is that we aim to bring the top players to this club.
"My perspective on Robbie's career and background is he didn't need family help in soccer.
"He's worked at Aston Villa as head scout, he then moved to Norwich as scouting chief and then was elevated to player pathways manager.
"Prior to our recruited him, two top division teams sought to sign him. What we did right at the start of proceedings was discuss with the CEO, the chairman and deputy chairman Marathe about this matter.
"I remained extremely open and I believe Robbie probably underwent a more rigorous process than any other employee by this football club.
"What I do know is that he'll labor 25/8 to be successful for Rangers and I'm looking forward seeing him demonstrating that he'll become an excellent staff member for Rangers."

Thelwell also defended the acquisition of striker Chermiti, who joined Rangers for an alleged first payment of £8m, after failing to find the net in 24 appearances for Everton.

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

He was asked if he supports his expensive purchase, who is yet to score in seven matches for the club.

"Absolutely, very much so," Thelwell responded. "I think the striker is a player who's possesses great ability.
"I've never doubted him whatsoever. Similarly, I think Danny will help to get the best out of the player.
"These are initial stages for him, he's a promising prospect and naturally with young talents they occasionally require patience.
"However, I'm convinced over the course of his career at the club he'll demonstrate that he's a highly capable footballer."

The CEO Acknowledges Supporters' Disappointment and Anger

Stewart was also in the media scrutiny, considering the criticism that has been aimed his way by some club own supporters.

There was even a banner in the stadium during the last draw with Dundee United inviting him - and the sporting director - to pack his bags before they were packed for them.

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

"I completely appreciate the frustration and anger that fans are feeling because performances this season haven't met good enough and no one is happy with those," he said.
"The hurt and frustration they feel is mirrored within the boardroom.
"Recognize that there must exist an outlet for that dissatisfaction and in my role, I'm responsible.
"I'm a focal point for such issues and my role as a
Nicole Harding
Nicole Harding

A seasoned collector and market analyst with over a decade of experience in rare card investments, sharing insights to help enthusiasts build valuable portfolios.