Rohl addressed the media for nearly 30 minutes during his introductory press conference
- Published2 hours ago
Nearly four and a half months after the previous coach's initial media briefing as Rangers manager, successor Danny Rohl faced reporters at Rangers' stadium for the initial occasion.
The magnitude of the task ahead of him is widely recognized, considering his predecessor's turbulent and unsuccessful four-month tenure.
The ex- Sheffield Wednesday manager was joined by club chairman the chairman, along with the much-criticized pair of football director Thelwell and chief executive Stewart.
However, what precisely was revealed from the young German's maiden media outing as Rangers boss?
The Manager's Main Priority - Winning is Everything
One thing emerged clearly from Rohl's first appearance in front of the Scottish media - he understands the necessity to secure victories, and do so quickly.
The previous manager Russell Martin lasted only 17 games and four months as manager, so the inquiry emerged about how long the new man believes is realistic to turn around the underperforming squad.
Although deftly sidestepping a direct answer that could bring later expectations, the coach's message was quite clear.
"Hopefully as soon as possible," he stated. "This is essential.
"In this business you have not much opportunity. You can discuss future plans but it's understood it concerns the short-term and the short-term involves securing victories. That is what I demand.
"Another aspect remains clear - I require all players to understand how we want to play. I come back to my main theme: it's winning, entertaining football and unity. If you follow this order, I believe that I'll stay for years here."
Pressure is Normal
Martin required a police escort to exit the stadium after his final match as manager.
We've witnessed how toxic situations can turn at sports teams when results decline. Protests have almost become an expected aspect of the matchday atmosphere on both sides of the city currently.
As the club's most youthful ever head coach, the question was posed about which attributes the coach thinks he possesses that would allow him to cope, never mind thrive, in among the most pressurized positions in British football?
"I think pressure in this business is normal," he commented. "One needs to understand that very quickly.
"I think some people might mention my age but I have been a decade and a half in this career. I had a great chance to be at Bayern Munich and serve as only an assistant coach, but I felt the reality to be a head coach and the demands involved.
"You begin getting results and then some critics will say you need to produce entertaining soccer. That becomes the stage but precisely my intention. I enjoy those expectations and I'm excited about the future."
Thelwell Defends Chermiti Signing & Appointing His Son
There were plenty of inquiries from journalists directed at Thelwell.
Significant attention has focused on the appointment of his son as recruitment chief, with supporters unconvinced about his credentials for the position.
Nevertheless, he defended and clarified the decision to bring his son to the club.
"It remains uncomfortable to listen and in appearance I believe we all agreed when we took this decision 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 very best talent to this club.
"My view on his professional path and situation is he didn't need family help in soccer.
"He served at Villa as head scout, he then moved to Norwich as head of scouting and then got promoted to development role.
"Before we hiring him, multiple top division clubs wanted to sign him. Our approach right at the start of proceedings was discuss with the CEO, Andrew and deputy chairman Marathe about this matter.
"I remained extremely transparent and I think Robbie probably underwent a stricter process than any other who's employed by this football club.
"What I do know is that he will work constantly to achieve success for Rangers and I anticipate to him proving that he'll become an excellent staff member for Rangers."
Additionally, Thelwell defended the acquisition of striker Chermiti, who arrived at Rangers for an alleged first payment of eight million pounds, having failed to find the net in 24 games for his previous club.
It was Thelwell who transferred the Portuguese young international to Merseyside from Sporting Lisbon - again for significant money in a fifteen million pound transfer.
The question came if he stands by his multi-million pound purchase, who is yet to register in seven matches for the club.
"Yes, completely," Thelwell responded. "I think Youssef Chermiti is a player who's possesses huge potential.
"I've never doubted him whatsoever. Similarly, I believe the manager will help to maximize the potential out of Youssef.
"These are early days for him, he remains young talent and naturally with inexperienced players they sometimes require patience.
"But I'm certain throughout of his time here he's going to prove that he is very, very good footballer."
The CEO Acknowledges Supporters' Frustration and Anger
Stewart was also in the media scrutiny, considering the vitriol that has been aimed his way by some club fans.
Additionally, there was a banner in the Sandy Jardine stand during the last draw with Dundee United suggesting Stewart - and Thelwell - to pack his bags before they were packed for them.
Like his football director, the CEO did not evade the issue.
"I totally appreciate the disappointment and anger that fans are experiencing because performances recently haven't met expectations and nobody's happy with them," he stated.
"The hurt and frustration they feel is matched inside the boardroom.
"Recognize that there has to be a channel for that dissatisfaction and as chief executive, that's me.
"I serve as lightning rod for those and my role as a