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Key Takeaways from Danny Rohl's Rangers Introduction

Danny Rohl media conference

Rohl spoke to journalists for approximately 30 minutes during his introductory media appearance

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    2 hours ago

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

The scale of the task facing him is widely recognized, given Martin's chaotic and disappointing 123-day spell.

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

However, what precisely did we learn from the 36-year-old German's first public appearance as Rangers boss?

The Manager's Primary Focus - Victory Comes First

A single message came through loud and clear from the new coach's initial presentation in front of the local press - he recognizes the necessity to secure victories, and achieve this quickly.

The previous manager Martin lasted only 17 matches and 123 days in charge, so the inquiry arose about how long the new man thinks is reasonable to transform the underperforming team.

While skillfully avoiding a specific response that might create later expectations, Rohl's message was very evident.

"With hope very quickly," he said. "This is crucial.
"In this business you have limited opportunity. You can discuss long-term vision but we know it's about the short-term and the short-term involves winning games. This is my requirement.
"One thing is also obvious - I need all players to understand how we want to play. I come back to my primary theme: it's winning, it's attractive and it's together. If you follow this order, I'm convinced that I'll stay for years at the club."

Pressure is Standard

Danny Rohl press conference

Martin required a police escort to exit the Falkirk Stadium after his final game in charge.

We've seen how toxic environments can turn at football clubs when performances are poor. Demonstrations have almost become an expected aspect of game day experience on each part of Glasgow these days.

As Rangers' youngest ever head coach, the inquiry asked about what qualities Rohl believes he has that would enable him to cope, let alone thrive, in among the highest-pressure roles in British football?

"I think expectations in this business are standard," he commented. "You must learn that very quickly.
"I believe some people could reference my youth but I'm a decade and a half in this career. I experienced an excellent opportunity to be at the German club and be just the assistant manager, but I experienced what it means to manage a team and the pressure you face.
"When you start getting results and then certain people claim you need to produce entertaining football. That's the next phase but precisely my intention. I enjoy those expectations and I'm excited for what's ahead."

The Sporting Director Defends Striker Acquisition & Appointing His Son

Kevin Thelwell media conference

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

Significant attention has concerned the appointment of Robbie Thelwell as recruitment chief, with fans skeptical about his credentials for the position.

However, he justified and clarified the choice to bring Thelwell Jnr to Ibrox.

"It remains awkward to listen and optically I think everyone understood when we made this decision to hire him that he'd be seen in a particular way," Thelwell said.
"The reality of circumstances is that we want 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 Villa as a senior scout, after which he moved to Norwich as head of scouting and then got promoted to player pathways manager.
"Before we hiring him, two Premier League clubs wanted to sign him. Our approach from the start of proceedings was discuss with Patrick, the chairman and deputy chairman Paraag Marathe about this situation.
"I remained highly transparent and I believe he likely underwent a stricter process than any other employee by this football club.
"I'm certain is that he will work 25/8 to be successful for Rangers and I'm looking forward seeing him proving that he's going to be a valuable employee for the club."

Additionally, Thelwell supported the signing of forward Youssef Chermiti, who joined the club for a reported initial fee of eight million pounds, having failed to score in 24 appearances for his previous club.

It was Thelwell who transferred the Portuguese youth international to Liverpool from Sporting Lisbon - once more for large funds in a £15m deal.

He was asked if he supports his multi-million pound signing, who is yet to score in seven outings for the club.

"Absolutely, completely," Thelwell responded. "I think the striker is a player who's possesses great ability.
"I've never questioned him in any way. Similarly, I believe the manager will assist in get the best out of the player.
"These are early days for the young player, he remains promising prospect and naturally with inexperienced players they sometimes require patience.
"However, I'm convinced throughout of his career at the club he'll demonstrate that he is very, very good footballer."

The CEO Understands Fan Disappointment and Anger

The chief executive was facing firing line, given the criticism that has been directed at him by some club fans.

There was even a banner in the Sandy Jardine stand during the last draw with United inviting Stewart - and Thelwell - to pack his bags before they were packed for them.

Similar to the football director, the CEO did not evade the topic.

"I totally understand the frustration and anger that fans are experiencing because results recently haven't met expectations and nobody's happy with them," he stated.
"The pain and frustration they feel is mirrored within the leadership.
"Also understand that there must exist an outlet for that dissatisfaction and in my role, that's me.
"I'm a lightning rod for those and my responsibility as a
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Julie Davis

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