Rohl addressed journalists for nearly half an hour during his first press conference
- Published2 hours ago
Nearly 135 days after Russell Martin's first press conference as Rangers manager, his replacement Danny Rohl met with reporters at Ibrox for the initial occasion.
The magnitude of the task ahead of him is widely recognized, considering his predecessor's chaotic and disappointing four-month spell.
The ex- Wednesday boss was joined by chairman Andrew Cavenagh, along with the much-criticized duo of football director Thelwell and CEO Stewart.
However, what precisely did we learn from the 36-year-old coach's first public appearance as the club's manager?
Rohl's Primary Focus - Winning is Everything
One thing came through clearly from the new coach's first appearance before the Scottish media - he recognizes the need to secure victories, and do so quickly.
The previous manager Russell Martin lasted only 17 matches and 123 days as manager, so the inquiry arose about what timeframe Rohl thinks is reasonable to transform the struggling squad.
While skillfully sidestepping a direct answer that could bring later expectations, the coach's communication was quite clear.
"With hope very quickly," he said. "This is crucial.
"In this business you have limited opportunity. You can discuss long-term vision but it's understood it concerns immediate results and the short-term involves winning games. That is what I demand.
"Another aspect remains obvious - I need all players to comprehend our intended to perform. I return to my primary theme: it's winning, it's attractive and unity. If you follow this sequence, I believe that I'll stay for years at the club."
Expectations are Standard
The previous manager needed a police escort to leave the stadium after his last game in charge.
We've seen how toxic situations can turn at sports teams when results decline. Demonstrations have almost become an expected part of game day experience on both sides of Glasgow these days.
As the club's most youthful manager in history, the question was posed about which attributes the coach thinks he has that would enable him to cope, let alone excel, in among the highest-pressure positions in British football?
"In my opinion expectations in this business are standard," he commented. "One needs to understand that rapidly.
"I believe some people might mention my age but I have been 16 years on this path. I experienced a great opportunity to be at Bayern Munich and serve as only an assistant coach, but I felt what it means to be a head coach and the pressure you face.
"You begin getting results and then certain people claim you need to produce entertaining football. That becomes the phase but precisely my intention. I enjoy those expectations and I look forward about the future."
Thelwell Explains Striker Acquisition & Appointing His Son
There were plenty of questions from journalists directed at Thelwell.
Significant attention has concerned the hiring of Robbie Thelwell as head of recruitment, with supporters unconvinced about his qualifications for the role.
Nevertheless, he defended and clarified the choice to bring his son to the club.
"It remains uncomfortable to hear and in appearance I believe we all agreed when we took this step to appoint him that he would be seen negatively," Thelwell said.
"The truth of circumstances is that we aim to bring the top talent here.
"My view on Robbie's career and background is he required no my assistance in soccer.
"He served at Villa as a senior scout, after which he joined Norwich as scouting chief and then was elevated to development role.
"Before we hiring him, two top division clubs sought to acquire him. What we did right at the beginning of proceedings was consult with Patrick, Andrew and vice-chairman Marathe about this situation.
"I remained highly transparent and I think he likely underwent a stricter procedure than any other employee by the team.
"I'm certain is that he will work constantly to achieve success for Rangers and I'm looking forward seeing him demonstrating that he'll become a valuable employee for the club."
Thelwell also supported the acquisition of forward Chermiti, who arrived at the club for a reported initial fee of eight million pounds, having failed to score in 24 appearances for Everton.
The sporting director who brought the Portuguese young international to Merseyside from Sporting - 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 the club.
"Yes, completely," Thelwell answered. "I believe the striker is a player who's possesses huge potential.
"I haven't doubted him whatsoever. Again, I think Danny will help to get the best out of the player.
"These are initial stages for him, he remains promising prospect and naturally with inexperienced players they occasionally require patience.
"However, I'm convinced throughout of his time at the club he'll demonstrate that he is highly capable footballer."
Stewart Acknowledges Fan Frustration and Hurt
Stewart was also facing scrutiny, given the vitriol that has been aimed at him by certain club own supporters.
There was even a sign in the Sandy Jardine stand during the recent tie with Dundee United suggesting him - and Thelwell - to depart before being removed for him.
Like his sporting director, the CEO did not evade the issue.
"I completely understand the frustration and hurt that fans are experiencing because results this season haven't been expectations and no one is happy with those," he stated.
"The pain and disappointment they feel is matched within the leadership.
"Recognize that there must exist an outlet for those frustrations and as chief executive, that's me.
"I'm a focal point for such issues and my responsibility as a