I think I would have asked the same thing Kelly. I expect the F/O to manage the aircraft as if they are in charge, right until I take over.
On another note, when an F/O, I have on occasion said "If you feel uncomfortable, go ahead and take over, because if this goes sideways, I'm going to leave you holding the blame."
One important thing an F/O does need to be able to do is quickly and completely switch to PNF mode after hearing "I have control".