U23s boss Critchley took charge of the youngest Reds starting XI in history for the fourth-round replay against Shrewsbury Town at Anfield, with Klopp and his first-team squad observing the Premier League winter break.
A mature and confident performance by the home side was rewarded with victory when Ro-Shaun Williams conceded an own goal 15 minutes from time, setting up a tie with Chelsea in the next stage.
Critchley took a call from Klopp in the dressing room after the win – and today explained what it meant to have the support of the manager.