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Key Takeaways from Danny Rohl's Glasgow Rangers Press Conference

Danny Rohl media conference

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

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    2 hours ago

Nearly four and a half months following Russell Martin's initial media briefing as Rangers manager, successor Danny Rohl faced the media at Rangers' stadium for the initial occasion.

The magnitude of the challenge ahead of him is well known, considering Martin's turbulent and unsuccessful four-month tenure.

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

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

The Manager's Main Priority - Victory Comes First

A single message emerged loud and clear from Rohl's first appearance before the local press - he understands the need to secure victories, and achieve this quickly.

His predecessor Martin lasted only 17 matches and 123 days as manager, so the question emerged about how long the new man thinks is realistic to turn around the struggling squad.

While skillfully avoiding a direct answer that might create future pressure, Rohl's communication was quite clear.

"Hopefully as soon as possible," he stated. "This is essential.
"In this business you have not much opportunity. You can discuss long-term vision but it's understood it's about the short-term and the short-term involves winning games. That is what I demand.
"One thing remains obvious - I require all players to comprehend how we want to play. I come back to my main message: victory comes first, it's attractive and unity. If you follow this order, I believe that I'll stay for years here."

Expectations are Normal

Danny Rohl press conference

The previous manager needed security protection to exit the Falkirk Stadium after his last game in charge.

We've witnessed how toxic situations can become at football clubs when results decline. Demonstrations have almost become a regular aspect of game day atmosphere on each part of Glasgow these days.

As Rangers' youngest manager in history, the inquiry was posed about what qualities the coach thinks he has that would enable him to handle, never mind excel, in among the most pressurized roles in British football?

"I think pressure in this business is normal," he stated. "You must learn that very quickly.
"I believe some people might mention my age but I'm 16 years on this path. I had an excellent chance to work with Bayern Munich and serve as just the assistant manager, but I felt what it means to manage a team and the pressure involved.
"When you start winning games and then certain people will say you must play attractive soccer. That becomes the phase but that's exactly my intention. I relish that challenge and I'm excited about the future."

Thelwell Defends Striker Acquisition & Appointing Family Member

Kevin Thelwell media conference

The media pack had plenty of questions from journalists for Thelwell.

Significant attention has concerned the hiring of Robbie Thelwell as head of recruitment, with fans unconvinced about his credentials for the position.

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

"It's always awkward to listen and optically I think everyone understood when we made this decision to appoint Robbie that he would be seen in a particular way," Thelwell said.
"The reality of circumstances is that we want to attract the top players here.
"My view on Robbie's career and situation is he didn't need family help in soccer.
"He served at Villa as head scout, after which he joined Norwich City as scouting chief and then got promoted to development role.
"Before we recruited him, two top division teams sought to sign him. What we did right at the beginning of proceedings was consult with the CEO, Andrew and vice-chairman Marathe about this matter.
"I was extremely open and I think he likely experienced a stricter process than any other who's employed by the team.
"What I do know is that he'll labor constantly to achieve success for Rangers and I'm looking forward to him demonstrating that he'll become an excellent staff member for Rangers."

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

The sporting director who transferred the Portugal youth international to Merseyside from Sporting Lisbon - again for large funds in a fifteen million pound transfer.

He was asked if he stands by his multi-million pound purchase, who is yet to register in seven outings for Rangers.

"Yes, completely," Thelwell responded. "I believe Youssef Chermiti represents who's got huge potential.
"I haven't doubted him in any way. Similarly, I think the manager will help to get the best out of Youssef.
"These are early days for the young player, he's a young talent and of course with inexperienced players they occasionally take time.
"But I'm certain over the course of his time here he'll demonstrate that he's a very, very good footballer."

Stewart Understands Fan Disappointment and Anger

The chief executive was in the media firing line, considering the criticism that has been aimed at him by certain club own supporters.

There was even a banner in the stadium during the recent draw with United suggesting Stewart - and the sporting director - to depart before being removed for them.

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

"I completely understand the frustration and anger that fans are feeling because performances this season haven't met good enough and nobody's happy with them," he said.
"The pain and disappointment fans experience is matched inside the boardroom.
"Recognize that there must exist 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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Kelly Wise

A passionate gamer and tech writer with over 8 years of experience covering industry trends and game analysis.

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