Rangers chairman Andrew Cavenagh has defended the club’s decision-making process in appointing Danny Rohl as head coach, insisting the hunt for Russell Martin’s successor was thorough, despite criticism from fans and media.

Cavenagh acknowledged that the process “looked clunky from the outside” but emphasized that internally, Rangers were methodical and strategic. The Ibrox club came close to securing high-profile candidates Steven Gerrard and Kevin Muscat before Rohl ultimately agreed to take the position, having initially withdrawn from consideration.

Addressing Fan and Media Criticism

Supporters have criticized sporting director Kevin Thelwell and chief executive Patrick Stewart, blaming them for Rangers’ poor start to the 2025-26 season. Cavenagh defended both executives, stating:

“I think the misconception that [Thelwell and Stewart] screwed it up is wrong. I was involved in every call, every meeting, every minute with both Gerrard and Muscat. Timing and circumstances were the main factors.”

He added that some reporting on the managerial search was misleading, creating a perception that the process was poorly managed:

“There’s asymmetric information—what’s in the press versus what is actually happening. It looked clunky from the outside, but inside the club it was very structured and efficient.”

No “Third-Choice” Head Coach

Cavenagh rejected the notion that Rohl was a “third choice” behind Gerrard and Muscat. He explained that Rangers were simultaneously engaging with five potential candidates, including names not publicly disclosed:

“We never ranked people one, two, and three. We had ten days to appoint a coach, so we pursued all five simultaneously. Anyone we spoke to would have been a great fit for Rangers.”

The chairman clarified that Gerrard and Muscat were never formally offered the job and that logistical challenges—including international travel, family commitments, and mid-season timing—complicated negotiations.

“Both situations were complicated… you’re constantly trying to move the ball forward with multiple candidates at once. It’s not about sending someone a formal offer with a bow on it.”

Rohl’s Early Moves at Rangers

Since his appointment, Danny Rohl has acted quickly to assemble his backroom team. Key additions include:

• Sascha Lense, men’s first-team performance manager, previously at Sheffield Wednesday.
• Matthias Kaltenbach, assistant coach with experience at Ajax.

Cavenagh expressed confidence that Rohl and his team are well-positioned to stabilize Rangers and build a competitive squad for the remainder of the season.

Looking Ahead

With Rohl in charge and a clear strategy in place, Rangers aim to recover form in the Scottish Premiership and make an impact in European competitions. Cavenagh emphasized that the focus should now be on Rohl’s performance and future success, rather than the media narrative around the appointment process.