Jurgen Klopp was ‘buzzing’ after the youngest Liverpool side in history beat Shrewsbury 1-0 in their FA Cup fourth-round replay.
The manager and his first-team squad were controversially absent on their scheduled mid-season break, as a Reds XI with an average age of 19 years and 102 days were sent out at Anfield.
And, while the build-up was dominated by questions about why the German and his senior players were not there, the youngsters delivered with a mature and dominant display against the League One side to seal a fifth round tie against Chelsea.
It was a proud moment for Under-23s coach Neil Critchley, as well as the supporters who packed into a sold-out Anfield to cheer on their stars of the future.
And he revealed Klopp still played a big role in the victory despite his absence, as the first-team boss maintained contact with the coaching staff and players before and after the game.
“The boss was in touch this afternoon with some words of advice and encouragement,” said Critchley.
“We had a message from the staff that he is delighted with the performance and is buzzing. We have given him a game against Chelsea to look forward to.
“He just gives you total clarity, belief, play the Liverpool way, go for it. And that is what the first team do. This is us, this is how we play, this is what we stand for and you had better be ready for it.”
Klopp also had an able deputy in veteran midfielder James Milner, who offered his experience and expertise at close quarters to his young team-mates.
While the rest of the senior stars are currently on holiday, Milner stayed at home for a few extra days to continue his rehab from a hamstring injury.
The 34-year-old was spotted watching the game from behind the Liverpool dugout, and Critchley revealed he also helped the young Reds in their preparation in the dressing room and on the training pitch.
“He trained with us yesterday and he asked whether he could come along. I think the answer is: ‘Yes, of course you can.’ It was very respectful to ask,” said Critchley.
“He then said: ‘Can I come in the dressing room?’ What do you think? ‘Of course!’
“He was giving words of advice, he was getting right behind the players. He was vocal in the dressing room. He was animated. He was vocal behind me, I could hear him.
“He was genuinely delighted at how the boys performed and I can’t thank him enough.”
