Stoke City manager Tony Pulis has welcomed the extra matches that an FA Cup run will bring his side this season.

The Potters are into the hat for the fifth round after beating Derby County 2-0, while they also have the knockout stages of the Europa League to attend to.

"We have played 14 cup ties so far this season and we are guaranteed now another three - the fifth round and we have got two games against Valencia," said Pulis.

"That will take us to 17 cup ties, for a side that is still learning all about the Premiership. It's a great testament to the players, the amount of games they have had to play in, but they keep digging in.

"What we have got to do now is make sure we take things nice and steady. It's an important stage within the season and we have to make sure we stay focused on the Premiership while also, when the cup ties come around, we want to win those games as well."

Stoke next travel to Manchester United in the Premier League on Tuesday.