Skip to content
Saturday, October 17, 2026
Global Cards Plus

Important Lessons from Rohl's Rangers Press Conference

Danny Rohl media conference

Rohl addressed journalists for nearly half an hour during his introductory media appearance

  • Published
    2 hours ago

Exactly four and a half months following Russell Martin's first press conference 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 widely recognized, considering Martin's chaotic and unsuccessful four-month tenure.

The former Wednesday boss was accompanied by chairman the chairman, along with the frequently questioned duo of sporting director Kevin Thelwell and chief executive Stewart.

However, what exactly was revealed from the 36-year-old coach's maiden media outing as Rangers boss?

Rohl's Primary Focus - Victory Comes First

A single message emerged clearly from Rohl's first appearance in front of the Scottish media - he understands the need to win matches, and do so rapidly.

The previous manager Russell Martin lasted only 17 games and four months in charge, so the question arose about what timeframe the new man believes is reasonable to transform the underperforming team.

While skillfully sidestepping a specific response that could bring future pressure, the coach's communication was very evident.

"Hopefully very quickly," he stated. "This is crucial.
"In this business you have not much time. 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.
"Another aspect remains obvious - I require every squad member to comprehend our intended to perform. I return to my primary theme: it's winning, entertaining football and it's together. By following this sequence, I believe that I will remain very long at the club."

Pressure is Normal

Danny Rohl press conference

Martin required a police escort to leave the stadium after his last game in charge.

We've witnessed how toxic situations can become at sports teams when performances decline. Demonstrations have nearly become an expected aspect of the matchday experience on both sides of Glasgow currently.

As the club's most youthful manager in history, the inquiry asked about which attributes the coach thinks he has that would allow him to cope, never mind thrive, in among the highest-pressure positions in UK soccer?

"I think expectations in football is normal," he commented. "One needs to understand that rapidly.
"I believe certain individuals might mention my age but I'm a decade and a half on this path. I had a great chance to work with Bayern Munich and serve as only an assistant coach, but I experienced what it means to manage a team and the pressure involved.
"When you start getting results and then some critics claim you need to produce entertaining soccer. That's the next stage but precisely what I want. I relish that challenge and I look forward about what's ahead."

Thelwell Explains Chermiti Signing & Hiring Family Member

Kevin Thelwell media conference

The media pack had plenty of inquiries from journalists directed at Thelwell.

Significant attention has concerned the appointment of Robbie Thelwell as recruitment chief, with fans skeptical about his qualifications for the role.

Nevertheless, he defended and clarified the choice to bring Thelwell Jnr to Ibrox.

"It's always awkward to hear and in appearance I think everyone understood when we took this decision to hire Robbie that he'd be viewed in a particular way," Thelwell stated.
"The truth of the situation is that we aim to attract the top talent here.
"My view on his professional path and situation is he didn't need my assistance in soccer.
"He's worked at Aston Villa as head scout, after which he moved to Norwich City as scouting chief and then got promoted to development role.
"Prior to our recruited him, two Premier League teams sought to acquire him. Our approach right at the start of proceedings was discuss with Patrick, the chairman and deputy chairman Marathe about this situation.
"I was highly open and I believe Robbie probably underwent a stricter procedure than any other employee by the team.
"What I do know is that he will work 25/8 to be successful for Rangers and I'm looking forward to him demonstrating that he'll become an excellent staff member for Rangers."

Thelwell also defended the acquisition of striker Chermiti, who arrived at Rangers for an alleged initial fee of £8m, after failing to score in 24 games for Everton.

The sporting director who transferred the Portugal youth international to Merseyside from Sporting - again for significant money in a £15m transfer.

The question came if he supports his multi-million pound purchase, who is yet to score in seven matches for the club.

"Absolutely, completely," Thelwell answered. "I believe the striker is a player who's possesses great ability.
"I haven't questioned him in any way. Again, I think the manager will assist in get the best out of Youssef.
"It's very initial stages for him, he's a young talent and of course with inexperienced players they occasionally require patience.
"But I'm certain over the course of his time here he's going to prove that he's a very, very good player."

The CEO Acknowledges Fan Disappointment and Hurt

Stewart was also in the media firing line, considering the criticism that has been directed his way by certain of the club's own supporters.

There was even a sign in the Sandy Jardine stand during the recent tie with Dundee United suggesting him - and Thelwell - to pack his bags before they were packed for him.

Similar to the sporting director, the CEO did not avoid the issue.

"I totally understand the disappointment and anger that the supporters are experiencing because results recently haven't been good enough and no one is satisfied with them," he stated.
"The pain and frustration they feel is mirrored within the leadership.
"Also understand that there must exist an outlet for those frustrations and in my role, that's me.
"I serve as lightning rod for those and my responsibility as a
Written by

Zoe Harrison

A seasoned financial journalist with over a decade of experience analyzing credit card markets and travel rewards programs across continents.

Global Cards Plus

Type to search articles.