Southampton Under-21s coach Simon Rusk is set to take charge of the club for their Carabao Cup quarter-final against Liverpool on Wednesday.
Russell Martin was relieved of his duties as head coach on Sunday following the 5-0 loss to Tottenham and the Saints are in the process of sounding out a new manager.
Until that time comes, Rusk, who also has experience in the England coaching set-up, will stand in the dugout.
And while Liverpool are heavy favourites to progress in the domestic cup competition, the home side will have an air of unpredictability about them without a permanent boss.
Speaking ahead of the match, Rusk said: “I think the nature of the turnaround in game time presents it’s challenges.
“I think my job is to assess what the next game is, assess the group and come up with a game plan that is most suitable and what you believe in.
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“That’s my job and I’ve done it for a long time. I’m looking forward to it and I’m sure we’ll have a good go.”
One particular area of difficulty for Southampton this season has been their defence.
The Saints have conceded 36 goals this term, the second most in the division behind Wolves.
And when asked whether Rusk could tighten up the defence, he said: “For myself, it’s using my experience and the staff. I work at a club that has an excellent infrastructure. I have some great senior players within that group.
“I have been reflecting on and watching the games. I have my own idea on what I think is best, but I will work with the players on that.
“Communication is key. I am going to be looking at the strengths of the team and working with them on what we think can be better. I will hopefully put us in the best possible position to perform.”
A win against Liverpool would be the perfect remedy for Southampton’s poor form.
A spot in the final four of the Carabao Cup is something that would alleviate the pressure on the South Coast.
