Rangers end tumultuous search for new manager after appointing Danny Röhl

Rangers have appointed Danny Röhl as their manager on an initial two-and-a-half-year deal. The German will assume the position immediately and will be in the dugout for Thursday’s Europa League clash with SK Brann.

Röhl had declared himself out of the running last week, when Rangers were in advanced talks with Kevin Muscat, but discussions with Muscat broke down. Muscat joined Steven Gerrard in backing away from the Rangers post despite taking part in detailed negotiations. Gerrard remains out of work and Muscat has stayed with Shanghai Port.

The Ibrox hierarchy therefore turned attention back to Röhl, having initially been concerned by supporter reaction to the prospect of hiring of the 36-year-old German. “This has been a thorough process to ensure we identified the right person to lead the club forward,” explained Rangers vice-chairman Paraag Marathe.

“It is a huge privilege to be taking on the role of head coach at such an incredible club, recognised around the world,” said Röhl in a statement. “I know it has been a difficult start to the season, but there is still so much to play for in four competitions, and my staff and I will give it everything to reward the supporters and the club.

“The expectations here are clear. The fans want to see results now – my mentality and experience is to think in exactly the same way and I have belief in the players that we can achieve this. We have no time to waste, we start straight away. I respect that trust is earned and understand we have to give the supporters confidence in what we are doing by showing it on the pitch from the start.

“The expectations are huge and I love this challenge because I set high standards for myself and the team too. Rangers is built on a tradition of hard work, unity and success - that is exactly what you will get from me and what I want my team to represent for all of you. I’m looking forward to meeting the squad and getting down to work ahead of Thursday’s game away to Brann.”

Röhl’s only previous role as a manager came at Sheffield Wednesday, whom he left in the summer amid off-field chaos. He was close to landing the Rangers job in the same period but Rangers turned to Russell Martin. In what proved a disastrous hire, castigated by fans from the outset, Martin lasted 123 days. His sacking came more than a fortnight ago.