Important Lessons from Danny Rohl's Rangers Introduction
Rohl spoke to journalists for nearly 30 minutes during his first media appearance
- Published2 hours ago
Nearly four and a half months after the previous coach's initial media briefing as Rangers head coach, successor Danny Rohl met with reporters at Ibrox for the first time.
The scale of the challenge facing him is well known, given Martin's chaotic and unsuccessful four-month tenure.
The ex- Sheffield Wednesday manager was joined by club chairman the chairman, along with the frequently questioned duo of football director Thelwell and chief executive Stewart.
However, what exactly did we learn from the young German's maiden media outing as the club's manager?
Rohl's Main Priority - Victory Comes First
One thing emerged clearly from the new coach's first appearance in front of the Scottish media - he understands the necessity to secure victories, and do so rapidly.
The previous manager Martin lasted only 17 games and four months as manager, so the question emerged about what timeframe the new man believes is realistic to turn around the underperforming team.
Although deftly avoiding a specific response that could bring later expectations, Rohl's message was very evident.
"Hopefully as soon as possible," he said. "This is essential.
"In this business you have limited time. You can discuss future plans but we know it concerns the short-term and that period involves securing victories. That is my requirement.
"Another aspect remains obvious - I need every squad member to comprehend our intended to perform. I come back to my primary theme: it's winning, it's attractive and unity. By following this sequence, I believe that I'll stay for years here."
Expectations are Standard
Martin required a police escort to leave the Falkirk Stadium after his last match as manager.
We've witnessed how hostile situations can turn at sports teams when performances decline. Protests have almost become a regular part of game day experience on each part of the city these days.
As the club's most youthful ever head coach, the inquiry was posed about what qualities the coach thinks he possesses that would allow him to handle, let alone thrive, in among the highest-pressure roles in British football?
"I think expectations in football are standard," he commented. "You must learn that rapidly.
"I believe some people might mention my age but I have been a decade and a half in this career. I experienced a great chance to work with Bayern Munich and serve as just the assistant coach, but I felt what it means to manage a team and the pressure you face.
"You begin winning games and then some critics claim you need to play attractive soccer. That becomes the phase but that's exactly what I want. I enjoy that challenge and I look forward for the future."
Thelwell Defends Striker Acquisition & Appointing Family Member
There were plenty of inquiries from journalists directed at Thelwell.
Significant attention has concerned the hiring of his son as recruitment chief, with fans skeptical about his qualifications for the role.
Nevertheless, he justified and clarified the decision to recruit Thelwell Jnr to Ibrox.
"It remains awkward to hear and in appearance I believe we all agreed when we took this step to hire Robbie that he'd be seen in a particular way," Thelwell stated.
"The truth of the situation is that we aim to attract the top talent to this club.
"My view on Robbie's career and situation is he required no family help in soccer.
"He served at Villa as head scout, he then joined Norwich as scouting chief and then was elevated to development role.
"Prior to our hiring him, two Premier League teams sought to acquire him. Our approach from the beginning of the process was discuss with Patrick, the chairman and deputy chairman Paraag Marathe about this situation.
"I remained extremely open and I believe Robbie probably underwent a more rigorous procedure than anybody else who's employed by this football club.
"What I do know is that he will work 25/8 to be successful for this football club 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 forward Youssef Chermiti, who joined the club for an alleged initial fee of eight million pounds, after failing to score in 24 games for his previous club.
It was Thelwell who transferred the Portugal young international to Merseyside from Sporting Lisbon - again for large funds in a fifteen million pound deal.
He was asked if he supports his multi-million pound signing, who hasn't yet register in seven outings for Rangers.
"Yes, completely," Thelwell responded. "I believe the striker is a player who's possesses huge potential.
"I haven't questioned him in any way. Similarly, I believe the manager will assist in maximize the potential out of Youssef.
"These are early days for him, he remains promising prospect and of course with inexperienced players they occasionally take time.
"However, I'm convinced throughout of his career at the club he's going to prove that he's a very, very good player."
Stewart Acknowledges Fan Disappointment and Hurt
The chief executive was facing firing line, given the criticism that has been directed at him by some of the club's own supporters.
There was even a sign in the Sandy Jardine stand during the last tie with Dundee United inviting Stewart - and Thelwell - to depart before they were packed for them.
Like his football director, Stewart didn't evade the issue.
"I completely understand the disappointment and hurt that fans are experiencing because performances this season haven't met good enough and nobody's happy with them," he said.
"The hurt and disappointment they feel is matched inside the boardroom.
"Also understand that there has to be a channel for those frustrations and as chief executive, that's me.
"I serve as lightning rod for those and my role as a