Stoke City boss Tony Pulis admits his players are entering unchartered waters.
Stoke are pushing for a top-10 finish this season, while an FA Cup semi-final encounter against Bolton awaits.
Pulis admits his players could start feeling the strain as the season reaches its climax, saying: "Most haven't experienced this kind of intensity at this level before.
"They are in the top half of the Premier League and have an FA Cup semi-final coming up.
"It can be physically draining, but it will definitely be mentally draining."
