Rohl addressed journalists for nearly half an hour during his first media appearance
- Published2 hours ago
Nearly four and a half months after the previous coach's initial media briefing as the club's manager, his replacement Danny Rohl met with the media at Ibrox for the first time.
The scale of the task facing him is well known, considering his predecessor's turbulent and unsuccessful four-month spell.
The ex- Sheffield Wednesday manager was joined by club chairman Andrew Cavenagh, along with the much-criticized duo of sporting director Thelwell and chief executive Patrick Stewart.
But what precisely was revealed from the young German's maiden media outing as Rangers boss?
Rohl's Main Priority - Winning Comes First
A single message emerged clearly from the new coach's initial presentation in front of the Scottish media - he understands the need to win matches, and do so rapidly.
His predecessor Martin managed just 17 matches and four months in charge, so the inquiry arose about how long Rohl thinks is realistic to turn around the underperforming team.
Although deftly sidestepping a specific response that might create later expectations, the coach's communication was quite clear.
"Hopefully very quickly," he said. "That is crucial.
"In football you have not much time. One can talk about future plans but it's understood it concerns immediate results and the short-term involves securing victories. This is what I demand.
"One thing is also clear - I require every squad member to comprehend 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'm convinced that I will remain very long here."
Pressure is Standard
The previous manager needed a police escort to leave the Falkirk Stadium after his last match as manager.
We've seen how toxic environments can become at football clubs when results decline. Demonstrations have almost become a regular aspect of the matchday atmosphere on each part of the city these days.
As Rangers' youngest ever head coach, the inquiry asked about which attributes the coach thinks he possesses that would allow him to cope, let alone excel, in among the highest-pressure roles in UK soccer?
"In my opinion pressure in football is normal," he commented. "You must learn that very quickly.
"I think certain individuals might mention my youth but I'm 16 years on this path. I experienced an excellent opportunity to be at Bayern Munich and be only an assistant coach, but I felt what it means to be a head coach and the demands involved.
"You begin getting results and then some critics claim you must play attractive football. That becomes the phase but that's exactly what I want. I enjoy those expectations and I look forward about what's ahead."
Thelwell Defends Chermiti Signing & Appointing His Son
There were numerous inquiries from journalists directed at Thelwell.
Much discussion has focused on the hiring of his son as head of recruitment, with fans skeptical about his credentials for the position.
Nevertheless, he justified and clarified the decision to recruit his son to the club.
"It remains awkward to hear and optically I believe we all agreed when we took this decision to hire Robbie that he would be viewed in a particular way," Thelwell said.
"The truth of circumstances is that we aim to attract the very best players to this club.
"My perspective on his professional path and background is he didn't need family help in soccer.
"He served at Villa as a senior scout, he then moved to Norwich as head of scouting and then got promoted to development role.
"Before we recruited him, multiple top division clubs sought to acquire him. What we did right at the start of proceedings was discuss with the CEO, Andrew and deputy chairman Marathe about this matter.
"I was highly transparent and I think he likely experienced a more rigorous process than any other who's employed by this football club.
"I'm certain is that he will work constantly to be successful for Rangers and I anticipate seeing him proving that he'll become an excellent employee for Rangers."
Additionally, Thelwell defended the acquisition of striker Chermiti, who arrived at the club for an alleged initial fee of £8m, having failed to score in 24 appearances for Everton.
It was Thelwell who transferred the Portugal youth international to Liverpool from Sporting - once more for significant money in a £15m transfer.
He was asked if he stands by his expensive signing, who hasn't yet register in seven outings for the club.
"Yes, very much so," Thelwell responded. "I think Youssef Chermiti is a player who's got huge potential.
"I haven't questioned him whatsoever. Similarly, I think Danny will help to get the best out of Youssef.
"These are early days for the young player, he remains young talent and naturally with inexperienced players they sometimes require patience.
"However, I'm convinced over the course of his career here he's going to prove that he is very, very good footballer."
Stewart Understands Fan Frustration and Hurt
Stewart was also in the media scrutiny, given the vitriol that has been directed his way by certain club fans.
There was even a banner in the Sandy Jardine stand during the recent draw with United suggesting him - and Thelwell - to pack his bags before being removed for him.
Like his sporting director, the CEO did not avoid the topic.
"I totally understand the frustration and hurt that the supporters are experiencing because results recently haven't met expectations and no one is satisfied with those," he stated.
"The hurt and frustration they feel is matched within the leadership.
"Also understand that there must exist an outlet for those frustrations and in my role, that's me.
"I'm a lightning rod for such issues and my responsibility as a
