Important Lessons from Rohl's Glasgow Rangers Introduction
Rohl spoke to journalists for around half an hour during his first media appearance
- Published2 hours ago
Exactly 135 days after the previous coach's first press conference as the club's manager, his replacement the German coach faced reporters at Rangers' stadium for the initial occasion.
The scale of the challenge ahead of him is well known, considering Martin's turbulent and unsuccessful 123-day spell.
The ex- Sheffield Wednesday manager was joined by club chairman the chairman, along with the much-criticized duo of football director Thelwell and chief executive Stewart.
But what exactly did we learn from the young German's maiden media outing as Rangers boss?
The Manager's Primary Focus - Winning is Everything
One thing came through loud and clear from the new coach's initial presentation before the local press - he recognizes the need to win matches, and do so rapidly.
The previous manager Martin managed just 17 matches and four months as manager, so the inquiry arose about how long the new man thinks is realistic to turn around the struggling squad.
While skillfully avoiding a specific response that might create future pressure, Rohl's message was very evident.
"With hope very quickly," he said. "That is crucial.
"In this business you have limited time. You can discuss long-term vision but it's understood it concerns immediate results and that period involves winning games. This is my requirement.
"Another aspect is also clear - I need all players to comprehend how we want to perform. I come back to my primary message: victory comes first, entertaining football and unity. By following this order, I'm convinced that I will remain very long at the club."
Pressure is Normal
Martin required security protection to exit the stadium after his last game in charge.
We've witnessed how toxic environments can become at sports teams when results decline. Demonstrations have nearly become a regular aspect of the matchday experience on both sides of Glasgow currently.
As Rangers' youngest ever head coach, the inquiry was posed about which attributes the coach thinks he possesses that would enable him to handle, never mind thrive, in among the highest-pressure roles in UK soccer?
"In my opinion expectations in this business are standard," he commented. "One needs to understand that rapidly.
"I think certain individuals could reference my youth but I'm a decade and a half in this career. I had an excellent opportunity to work with Bayern Munich and be just the assistant manager, but I felt what it means to manage a team and the pressure involved.
"You begin winning games and then certain people will say you must play attractive football. That becomes the stage but that's exactly what I want. I enjoy those expectations and I look forward for what's ahead."
Thelwell Defends Chermiti Signing & Appointing His Son
The media pack had numerous inquiries from journalists for Thelwell.
Much discussion has concerned the appointment of Robbie Thelwell as recruitment chief, with supporters skeptical about his qualifications for the position.
However, he justified and clarified the choice to bring Thelwell Jnr to Ibrox.
"It remains uncomfortable to listen and in appearance I think everyone understood when we made this step to hire him that he would be viewed negatively," Thelwell stated.
"The reality of the situation is that we aim to bring the very best talent to this club.
"My perspective on his professional path and background is he didn't need my assistance in soccer.
"He served at Aston Villa as head scout, after which he moved to Norwich City as head of scouting and then was elevated to development role.
"Before we hiring him, multiple Premier League teams wanted to sign him. Our approach from the start of proceedings was consult with the CEO, Andrew and vice-chairman Paraag Marathe about this matter.
"I remained highly transparent and I think Robbie probably experienced a more rigorous process than anybody else employee by the team.
"I'm certain is that he will work 25/8 to be successful for Rangers and I'm looking forward seeing him proving that he'll become a valuable staff member for Rangers."
Thelwell also supported the acquisition of striker Youssef Chermiti, who joined Rangers for a reported initial fee of £8m, after failing to find the net in 24 games for Everton.
It was Thelwell who brought the Portuguese youth international to Liverpool from Sporting Lisbon - once more for large funds in a fifteen million pound transfer.
The question came if he stands by his multi-million pound purchase, who hasn't yet register in seven outings for Rangers.
"Absolutely, very much so," Thelwell responded. "I believe Youssef Chermiti represents who's got huge potential.
"I've never questioned him whatsoever. Again, I believe the manager will assist in maximize the potential out of the player.
"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 throughout of his career here he'll demonstrate that he is highly capable footballer."
Stewart Understands Supporters' Disappointment and Anger
Stewart was also facing firing line, considering the vitriol that has been directed his way by some of the club's fans.
Additionally, there was a banner in the Sandy Jardine stand during the recent draw with United inviting him - and Thelwell - to depart before being removed for them.
Like his sporting director, the CEO did not evade the issue.
"I totally understand the disappointment and anger that fans are experiencing because performances this season haven't met good enough and no one is satisfied with them," he stated.
"The pain and frustration they feel is matched inside the boardroom.
"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