Jurgen Klopp gave Steve Cooper a 'massive compliment' as he praised Nottingham Forest for their performance against Liverpool.
The Reds were beaten 1-0 in the quarter-finals at the City Ground by Diogo Jota's late goal after Philip Zinckernagel missed a big chance for the hosts. Forest had further chances for Ryan Yates and Cafu, but Liverpool made it through to a semi-final against Manchester City next month.
After the game, Klopp told ITV Sport he felt Forest had given his side, which included Allison, Virgil van Dijk and Jota, a serious test as he made a quadruple substitution.
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"Proper Cup match. I know they don't get anything for it, but a massive compliment for Steve Cooper and his team. They played a really good game," he said. "They fought and closed the gaps. We could and should have played better but they made it difficult. First half we should score the sitter - Bobby (Firmino), that's not like him not to square the ball.
"They didn't have a lot first half, they had moments, counter attacks and these things, but the game stayed open. They could have gone 1-0 up.
"The atmosphere was a massive boost for them, but we got through. I'm really happy with it. Diogo had a difficult chance to finish. It's an outstanding goal. He's a proper striker."
