Klopp lauded by Liverpool U23 boss ahead of Shrewsbury replay in FA Cup

Neil Critchley has thanked Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp for his "unbelievable support" ahead of the FA Cup fourth-round replay against Shrewsbury on Tuesday, with the U23s set for a "unique" night at Anfield.

Liverpool's U23s will represent the first team in the replay, with their manager Critchley in the dugout, as he was when the club fielded the same squad for their 5-0 defeat to Aston Villa in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.

Shrewsbury's Official Supporters Club accused Liverpool and Klopp of a lack of respect towards the Sky Bet League One team and the competition itself, after two-goal hero Jason Cummings secured the shock second meeting, with a trip to Chelsea awaiting the winners in the fifth round.

Accrington Stanley chairman Andy Holt was also critical of Liverpool's decision to play the U23s, accusing them and Klopp of "killing the FA Cup", while the Premier League leaders have slashed ticket prices for the replay.

U23s boss Critchley defended Liverpool's decisions, and admitted he did not think he would get another opportunity to lead the team.

"I never thought it would happen once, let alone twice," Critchley said. "I'm really looking forward to what will be a special night. The young players will get a unique opportunity.

"I think the manager has made it quite clear with his statement and what he said prior to the game. He gives myself, and the staff, unbelievable support.

"I can speak to him whenever I like. He supports the young players unbelievably well, as he has shown so far this season.

"His presence is always felt even if he isn't there. Especially by our younger players, and me myself.

"I also think that the way we played against Aston Villa, he may have felt that the boys deserved another opportunity."