Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has doubled down on his decision to play youth players and have under-23 manager Neil Critchley oversee the FA Cup fourth round replay against Shrewsbury.
A 2-2 draw in their initial meeting saw the League One side become only the fifth side to stop Liverpool winning a match in all competitions and forced a replay, which is due to take place during the Premier League’s winter break in February.
– Premier League winter break: All you need to know
Klopp was criticised for not prioritising the FA Cup as Liverpool compete for a first league title for 30 years, while they also aim to retain their Champions League crown, but the German hit back.
“If people think I am lazy because I am not there, I cannot change that and I’m not interested,” he said ahead of their Premier clash clash with West Ham. “I just feel responsible for my players.
“If we find a way to play it then nothing will change and we have to change it.”
A replay would mean a huge windfall for Shrewsbury but Klopp said that, while he is in all in favour of supporting lower league clubs, he believes FA Cup ties should be decided with just one meeting.
“Yes,” Klopp said, when asked if he felt the FA Cup should get rid of replays. “I respect the financial situation of lower league clubs.
“I spent most of my life working at lower league clubs but the replay cannot be the solution. I love cup competitions but I have to see the bigger picture.”