Tony Pulis claims winning the FA Cup remains the pinnacle of sporting achievement in his eyes.
Potters boss holds FA Cup in high regard
Stoke boss Tony Pulis claims winning the FA Cup remains the pinnacle of sporting achievement in his eyes.
The competition has seen its standing in the game diminish down the years, with European football dominating the thoughts of England's elite.
It will, however, always hold a special place in the hearts and minds of those who grew up in a generation when the FA Cup was the top prize on offer.
Pulis falls into that category, with the Potters manager holding fond memories of a time when knockout competition was king.
With that in mind, he is determined to lead his troops past Bolton and into a cup final of their own on Sunday.
Sad
"When I was younger the only live games you watched were the FA Cup. That was so special," said Pulis.
"I understand the world moves on and we get a little bit blasé because there is so much football on the television.
"And I do recognise you have international football and Champions League, the Premier League, then the FA Cup and League Cup.
"That's sad. The FA Cup will always be special to me and to people of my generation."
Pulis has worked wonders at Stoke, helping the club to become an established top-flight outfit and a difficult proposition in the cups.
Backing
He has, however, been backed all the way by chairman Peter Coates and his supportive family.
On Stoke's recipe for success, Pulis said: "It's a local family and one that has supported the club for more than 60 years.
"They have put their money in and really backed the club.
"People thought we would be relegated after one season. But other clubs bigger than Stoke have come and gone, and we're still fighting.
"Not only have we done that we've had good cup runs over the past three years. It has culminated in this semi-final appearance."
