Rusk on 'hectic' few days, preparing for Liverpool and his role

Rusk confirmed there are "no fresh injuries" that he is aware of, but there will still be situations being assessed in coming days before both the Liverpool and Fulham games.

The interim coach said it has been a "hectic" time since he took charge following the sacking of Russell Martin on Sunday, but that "communication has been nice and clear on what is expected and my role in the next few days".

Rusk said he has not had a lot of communication with the players yet after they had a day off on Monday, but added: "I have been with club since the summer and I know they are good guys, a good group of professionals. In my time with them they have been professional and I'm sure they will do their job."

On confidence in being able to tighten up the side's defensive issues for this game: "For myself, I will be using my experience and the staff and what I do have available. The club has excellent infrastructure, great support and excellent senior players. I've been reflecting and watching games, I have got my own idea and on what is best for group but I will work with the players on that. Communication is key."

Asked if he would like to be in the mix for the permanent position, he responded: "I'm a believer in staying present. Present for me is preparing the team to play Liverpool. The communication has been ongoing and excellent to myself. The best thing I can do is prepare the team as best as I can, what falls out of that will fall out. I've been in the game long enough to know that."

Rusk confirmed he is "solely focusing on the Liverpool game" and any indication he will be in charge for the weekend's game will "come clearer after the game".

On if they can take confidence and a blueprint from recent performance against the Reds in the league: "That is the challenge. When we analyse the game, it was not too long ago, so there will be aspects we want to retain, keep footprints of. But, we are in a different moment right now. We need to prepare in the most intelligent way possible."

He added: "No plan survives first contact with enemy, but we will be ready."