Dubai, the Maldives and Miami... Liverpool's first team have been enjoying the high life as they soak up the sun on their winter break. All except one player, that is.

James Milner has opted to stay in England and was spotted cheering on the club's brave starlets in the FA Cup as they put League Two Shrewsbury to the sword in the senior side's absence.

Jurgen Klopp vowed to honour his promise of a winter break to his senior Liverpool players after they squandered a two-goal lead against the Shrews in the reverse tie and said the youth team would play instead - provoking criticism and debate from around the country.

James Milner was spotted in the stands at Anfield to oversee Liverpool's 1-0 win in the FA Cup

The ex-England international played a huge part as he inspired the players before the game

But while the German boss opted not to be present at Anfield, Milner stepped up in his place as he was spotted in the stands to oversee the youngsters' plucky display in testing circumstances.

The kids did good on the night as Neil Critchley's side booked a fifth round spot against Chelsea.

The former England international played a crucial role behind the scenes in the build up to the game as he gave a pep talk to the players and trained with them.

He had asked Critchley if he could be involved prior to the game, and the Under 23s boss gave a glowing report of the 34-year-old's attitude.

Neco Williams, left, and Liam Millar celebrate as Liverpool go in front against Shrewsbury

Under-23 boss Neil Critchley (C) praised the impact of Milner, who gave a pep talk to the stars

'He is totally respectful and professional,' he said. 'He was giving words of advice.'

A comical own goal from former Manchester United youngster Ro-Shaun Williams saw the defender send the ball looping into his own net as the youngest side in Liverpool's history held on.

The Shrews had threatened to make Klopp pay for his controversial decision to withdraw his big name players for the tie as Shaun Whalley's header was disallowed by VAR with an offside in the build-up.

Well done 👏🏽😄 pic.twitter.com/ZJiUMA48tC — Virgil van Dijk (@VirgilvDijk) February 4, 2020

The German boss is thought to have watched the game from afar, and Liverpool stars took time out from their holidays to tune into the game on a live feed with centre back Virgil van Dijk offering his congratulations to the youngsters for getting the job done.

The Holland international tweeted: 'Well done' with a clapping and smiling emoji as he posted a picture of him watching the tie from his far flung destination.

Goalkeeper Adrian was also enthused by the effort from the youth side, writing 'We are @LFC!! And we do it on @EmiratesFACup as well!'

He also posted a picture of his viewing set up with the caption 'historical night!! On to the next round.'

Liverpool forward Adam Lallana attended Miami Heat's victory over Philadelphia 76ers

Fabinho poses for a picture on the beach in Maldives alongside his wife Rebecca Tavares

Liverpool stars are enjoying some needed time off after storming to a 22-point lead at the top of the Premier League this season having dropped just two points from 25 games.

Adam Lallana is currently relaxing in Miami, with the midfielder spotted attending Miami Heat's victory over Philadelphia 76ers, while right back Alexander Trent-Arnold was also present at the basketball game.

Meanwhile, Fabinho is with his wife in the Maldives, also the choice destination of forward Roberto Firmino.