Important Lessons from Rohl's Rangers Introduction
Rohl addressed journalists for approximately half an hour during his first press conference
- Published2 hours ago
Exactly 135 days after Russell Martin's first press conference as Rangers manager, successor the German coach faced the media at Ibrox for the initial occasion.
The scale of the challenge ahead of him is widely recognized, considering Martin's chaotic and unsuccessful 123-day spell.
The former Sheffield Wednesday manager was accompanied by chairman the chairman, along with the much-criticized pair of sporting director Kevin Thelwell and chief executive Stewart.
However, what precisely did we learn from the 36-year-old German's first public appearance as Rangers boss?
The Manager's Main Priority - Victory is Everything
A single message emerged clearly from the new coach's first appearance in front of the local press - he recognizes the need to win matches, and do so quickly.
The previous manager Russell Martin managed just 17 games and 123 days as manager, so the question arose about how long the new man thinks is realistic to turn around the struggling team.
While skillfully sidestepping a direct answer that might create later expectations, the coach's communication was quite clear.
"With hope as soon as possible," he stated. "That is essential.
"In this business you have limited opportunity. You can discuss long-term vision but it's understood it's about immediate results and that period involves securing victories. This is my requirement.
"One thing remains clear - I require every squad member to understand how we want to perform. I return to my primary message: victory comes first, it's attractive and unity. By following this order, I'm convinced that I will remain very long here."
Pressure is Standard
The previous manager needed a police escort to leave the stadium after his last game in charge.
We've witnessed how hostile situations can turn at sports teams when results decline. Demonstrations have almost become a regular aspect of game day atmosphere on each part of the city these days.
As Rangers' youngest manager in history, the question asked about what qualities the coach thinks he possesses that would allow him to cope, never mind thrive, in among the most pressurized positions in UK soccer?
"In my opinion pressure in football is normal," he commented. "One needs to understand that rapidly.
"I believe some people might mention my youth but I'm 16 years on this path. I had a great opportunity to be at the German club and be just the assistant manager, but I experienced what it means to be a head coach and the pressure involved.
"When you start getting results and then some critics will say you must play attractive football. That becomes the stage but precisely what I want. I relish that challenge and I look forward about the future."
Thelwell Explains Chermiti Signing & Hiring Family Member
There were plenty of questions from the media for Thelwell.
Much discussion has concerned the hiring of his son as head of recruitment, with fans unconvinced about his qualifications for the position.
However, he justified and explained the decision to recruit Thelwell Jnr to Ibrox.
"It remains uncomfortable to listen and optically I believe everyone understood when we took this step to appoint Robbie that he would be viewed in a particular way," Thelwell stated.
"The truth of circumstances is that we want to attract the top talent to this club.
"My perspective on Robbie's career and situation is he required no my assistance in soccer.
"He served at Aston Villa as head scout, after which he joined Norwich as head of scouting and then got promoted to development role.
"Before we recruited him, multiple Premier League teams wanted to sign him. Our approach from the beginning of proceedings was discuss with Patrick, Andrew and deputy chairman Paraag Marathe about this matter.
"I remained extremely transparent and I think he likely experienced a stricter procedure than any other who's employed by this football club.
"What I do know is that he'll labor constantly to achieve success for this football club and I'm looking forward seeing him demonstrating that he's going to be an excellent employee for the club."
Additionally, Thelwell defended the acquisition of striker Youssef Chermiti, who arrived at the club for an alleged first payment of £8m, having failed to find the net in 24 appearances for his previous club.
It was Thelwell who transferred the Portuguese young international to Liverpool from Sporting - again for significant money in a fifteen million pound deal.
He was asked if he stands by his multi-million pound purchase, who is yet to score in seven matches for the club.
"Absolutely, completely," Thelwell responded. "I think the striker represents who's possesses huge potential.
"I've never doubted him in any way. Similarly, I believe the manager will help to get the best out of Youssef.
"These are early days for the young player, he remains promising prospect and naturally with young talents they sometimes take time.
"But I'm certain throughout of his career at the club he'll demonstrate that he's a highly capable player."
The CEO Understands Fan Frustration and Hurt
The chief executive was facing firing line, considering the criticism that has been directed at him by some of the club's own supporters.
Additionally, there was a banner in the stadium during the recent draw with Dundee United suggesting him - and Thelwell - to depart before being removed for them.
Like his football director, Stewart didn't avoid the topic.
"I totally appreciate the frustration and hurt that the supporters are experiencing because results this season haven't been good enough and no one is happy with them," he stated.
"The pain and frustration fans experience is matched inside the leadership.
"Also understand that there must exist an outlet for those frustrations and in my role, that's me.
"I serve as focal point for such issues and my responsibility as a