Major Insights from Rohl's Glasgow Rangers Press Conference
Rohl addressed journalists for approximately 30 minutes during his introductory press conference
- Published2 hours ago
Nearly 135 days following the previous coach's first press conference as Rangers manager, his replacement the German coach met with the media at Ibrox for the initial occasion.
The scale of the challenge facing him is widely recognized, given Martin's chaotic and disappointing 123-day tenure.
The former Sheffield Wednesday manager was accompanied by chairman Andrew Cavenagh, along with the frequently questioned duo of sporting director Thelwell and chief executive Patrick Stewart.
However, what exactly was revealed from the 36-year-old coach's maiden media outing as the club's manager?
The Manager's Primary Focus - Victory is Everything
A single message came through loud and clear from the new coach's initial presentation in front of the Scottish media - he understands the need to win matches, and achieve this quickly.
The previous manager Martin lasted only 17 matches and four months as manager, so the inquiry emerged about what timeframe the new man thinks is realistic to turn around the struggling squad.
While skillfully sidestepping a specific response that might create later expectations, Rohl's communication was quite clear.
"Hopefully very quickly," he stated. "That is essential.
"In this business you have not much time. One can talk about future plans but it's understood it's about immediate results and the short-term is about securing victories. This is my requirement.
"Another aspect is also obvious - I require every squad member to comprehend how we want to play. I return to my main theme: it's winning, it's attractive and unity. By following this order, I'm convinced that I will remain very long here."
Pressure is Normal
The previous manager needed security protection to exit the stadium after his last game in charge.
We've seen how hostile situations can become at football clubs when performances are poor. Demonstrations have nearly become a regular part of game day atmosphere on both sides of the city currently.
As Rangers' youngest ever head coach, the question asked about what qualities Rohl believes he possesses that would enable him to cope, let alone excel, in one of the highest-pressure positions in British football?
"In my opinion pressure in this business are standard," he commented. "One needs to understand that rapidly.
"I think some people could reference my youth but I have been 16 years on this path. I had an excellent opportunity to be at the German club and be just the assistant manager, but I felt what it means to be a head coach and the pressure involved.
"When you start getting results and then some critics claim you must produce entertaining soccer. That becomes the phase but precisely what I want. I relish those expectations and I'm excited for the future."
The Sporting Director Defends Chermiti Signing & Hiring Family Member
The media pack had plenty of questions from the media directed at Thelwell.
Significant attention has concerned the hiring of Robbie Thelwell as head of recruitment, with fans skeptical about his credentials for the position.
However, he justified and explained the choice to recruit Thelwell Jnr to the club.
"It's always uncomfortable to listen and in appearance I think we all agreed when we took this step to hire him that he would be viewed negatively," Thelwell said.
"The reality of circumstances is that we want to bring the very best talent to this club.
"My perspective on Robbie's career and situation is he didn't need my assistance in soccer.
"He's worked at Villa as head scout, after which he moved to Norwich as head of scouting and then got promoted to player pathways manager.
"Before we hiring him, multiple top division teams sought to acquire him. What we did from the beginning of proceedings was consult with Patrick, Andrew and vice-chairman Marathe about this situation.
"I remained extremely transparent and I believe Robbie probably experienced a more rigorous procedure than anybody else employee by the team.
"What I do know is that he'll labor 25/8 to be successful for this football club and I anticipate to him proving that he's going to be a valuable employee for Rangers."
Additionally, Thelwell defended the acquisition of forward Youssef Chermiti, who arrived at the club for an alleged first payment of eight million pounds, having failed to find the net in 24 appearances for his previous club.
It was Thelwell who brought the Portugal young international to Liverpool from Sporting Lisbon - once more for significant money in a fifteen million pound transfer.
He was asked if he stands by his expensive signing, who hasn't yet register in seven matches for the club.
"Absolutely, completely," Thelwell answered. "I believe the striker is a player who's got huge potential.
"I haven't questioned him whatsoever. Similarly, I believe the manager will assist in get the best out of the player.
"These are early days for the young player, he's a young talent and of course with young talents they occasionally take time.
"However, I'm convinced over the course of his time here he's going to prove that he's a very, very good footballer."
Stewart Acknowledges Supporters' Frustration and Anger
The chief executive was in the media scrutiny, given the criticism that has been directed at him by certain club own supporters.
Additionally, there was a sign in the stadium during the recent draw with Dundee United suggesting him - and the sporting director - to depart before they were packed for them.
Like his sporting director, the CEO did not avoid the issue.
"I totally appreciate the disappointment and hurt that the supporters are feeling because performances recently haven't met expectations and nobody's satisfied with those," he said.
"The hurt and disappointment they feel is mirrored within the boardroom.
"Recognize that there must exist a channel for those frustrations and in my role, that's me.
"I'm a focal point for those and my responsibility as a