Rohl addressed the media for nearly 30 minutes during his introductory press conference
- Published2 hours ago
Nearly four and a half months after Russell Martin's first press conference as Rangers head coach, successor the German coach faced the media at Rangers' stadium for the initial occasion.
The magnitude of the challenge facing him is well known, considering his predecessor's turbulent and unsuccessful 123-day tenure.
The former Sheffield Wednesday manager was accompanied by club chairman Andrew Cavenagh, along with the much-criticized duo of sporting director Thelwell and CEO Stewart.
However, what exactly was revealed from the young German's first public appearance as Rangers boss?
The Manager's Main Priority - Winning Comes First
A single message came through loud and clear from Rohl's first appearance in front of the local press - 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 what timeframe Rohl thinks is reasonable to transform the struggling team.
Although deftly avoiding a direct answer that might create future pressure, the coach's communication was very evident.
"Hopefully very quickly," he said. "That is crucial.
"In this business you have not much time. One can talk about long-term vision but it's understood it's about the short-term and the short-term is about securing victories. That is what I demand.
"One thing remains clear - I require every squad member to understand how we want to perform. I come back to my primary theme: victory comes first, it's attractive and it's together. By following this sequence, I'm convinced that I'll stay very long at the club."
Expectations are Normal
Martin required a police escort to leave the stadium after his last game in charge.
We've seen how hostile environments can turn at football clubs when performances are poor. Demonstrations have almost become an expected part of the matchday atmosphere on both sides of the city currently.
As the club's most youthful ever head coach, the question asked about which attributes the coach thinks he has that would allow him to cope, never mind excel, in one of the most pressurized roles in UK soccer?
"I think expectations in this business are standard," he stated. "One needs to understand that rapidly.
"I think certain individuals could reference my age but I'm a decade and a half on this path. I experienced an excellent opportunity to work with Bayern Munich and serve as only an assistant manager, but I felt what it means to be a head coach and the demands involved.
"When you start getting results and then some critics claim you must play attractive soccer. That's the next phase but that's exactly what I want. I relish those expectations and I look forward about what's ahead."
Thelwell Defends Striker Acquisition & Hiring His Son
There were numerous inquiries from journalists directed at Thelwell.
Significant attention has concerned the appointment of his son as head of recruitment, with supporters unconvinced about his credentials for the role.
However, he justified and clarified the decision to recruit his son to the club.
"It remains awkward to hear and in appearance I believe we all agreed when we made this decision to appoint Robbie that he'd be viewed in a particular way," Thelwell said.
"The truth of circumstances is that we aim to bring the top talent here.
"My perspective on Robbie's career and background is he required no family help in football.
"He served at Villa as a senior scout, he then joined Norwich as scouting chief and then was elevated to development role.
"Before we hiring him, two Premier League clubs sought to acquire him. What we did right at the start of the process was discuss with the CEO, Andrew and vice-chairman Paraag Marathe about this situation.
"I remained extremely transparent and I believe Robbie probably underwent a stricter procedure than anybody else employee by this football club.
"What I do know is that he will work 25/8 to achieve success for Rangers and I'm looking forward seeing him demonstrating that he'll become a valuable staff member for the club."
Additionally, Thelwell supported the acquisition of forward Youssef Chermiti, who arrived at Rangers for a reported initial fee of eight million pounds, after failing to find the net in 24 games for Everton.
The sporting director who brought the Portugal young international to Liverpool from Sporting Lisbon - again for large funds in a fifteen million pound deal.
The question came if he stands by his multi-million pound purchase, who hasn't yet register in seven matches for Rangers.
"Absolutely, completely," Thelwell responded. "I believe the striker represents who's possesses huge potential.
"I haven't questioned him whatsoever. Again, I believe the manager will assist in maximize the potential out of the player.
"It's very early days for him, he remains young talent and of course with young talents they sometimes take time.
"However, I'm convinced over the course of his time here he's going to prove that he is very, very good footballer."
Stewart Understands Fan Disappointment and Anger
Stewart was also facing scrutiny, considering the vitriol that has been directed at him by certain of the club's fans.
Additionally, there was a sign in the Sandy Jardine stand during the last tie with United inviting him - and the sporting director - to depart before they were packed for him.
Like his sporting director, the CEO did not evade the topic.
"I totally understand the disappointment and hurt that fans are experiencing because results recently haven't been good enough and nobody's satisfied with them," he stated.
"The hurt and frustration they feel is mirrored within the leadership.
"Recognize that there has to be an outlet for that dissatisfaction and as chief executive, that's me.
"I'm a focal point for such issues and my role as a