TONY PULIS will have a limited amount of time in which to fine tune his preparations for Stoke City's biggest cup game for 38 years . . . but that is a reflection of the recognition the Club has received for its success over the past couple of seasons.

Pulis welcomes back eight players from international duty as the Potters begin gearing themselves up for Sunday's FA Cup quarter final against holders Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, their first appearance at that stage of the competition since 1972.

The long list of internationals included Republic of Ireland pair Liam Lawrence and Glenn Whelan, Denmark goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen, Turkey captain Tuncay and defender Ryan Shawcross, who earned his first call-up to the England squad this week.

"It's not ideal preparation for such a big game, but it's a measure of where we are now that we've had so many on international duty," said Pulis. "Our opponents are in a similar position and so we just have to make the most of the next couple of days.

"We will have a good look in training at the players who have been away and make a decision on those who look the fresher ahead of the game."

Pulis hopes to receive a fitness boost with the return of defender Danny Higginbotham and winger Matthew Etherington for the quarter final.

Higginbotham has been sidelined with a back injury since he came off in the Premier League match against Manchester City, while Etherington has been battling to recover from a knee injury sustained in the FA Cup fifth round tie at the City of Manchester Stadium.

Their return will help to compensate for the fact that the Potters will be without key defender Shawcross as he begins a three match suspension at the weekend.

"We're hoping Danny and Matty will have a chance, but it's touch and go at this stage, so we'll see how they shape up over the next couple of days," said Pulis.