Mackay mum on Cardiff sacking

Liverpool - Cardiff City manager Malky Mackay refused to discuss his position ahead of his side's game at Liverpool on Saturday amid widespread reports that he faces the sack.

Mackay did not attend his pre-match press conference on Friday, after reports emerged in the British media that he had been sent an email by owner Vincent Tan telling him to resign or face dismissal.

Mackay has a frosty relationship with Tan and reportedly angered the Malaysian by publicly expressing a desire to sign three new players in the January transfer window.

Mackay has received strong backing from Cardiff's fans during his dispute with Tan and he was given a warm reception by the travelling supporters when he emerged onto the pitch prior to kick-off at Anfield.

Asked if he had been given an ultimatum by Tan in a subsequent interview with BT Sport, he replied: "These are things I will deal with in time.

"Right now, my whole focus is on the game here, make no mistake about that. My duty is to my team, my football club and my support. An hour before the game, my whole focus is on the game in hand."

He described the support he had received as "quite humbling", adding: "A lot of nice people have said some kind things about me and it is nice to hear, but it is about making sure I do my job and do it properly.

"That is what I have always done and what I am going to do today."

And asked if he had a message for the Cardiff fans, he replied: "The message doesn't change. Support your team, get behind the team."

Cardiff were in 15th place in the Premier League table ahead of the game with second-place Liverpool, four points above the relegation zone.