Stoke City boss Tony Pulis admits the Brit fans will be important against Arsenal today.

Recent clashes with the Gunners have acquired an edge with the last meeting between the sides in the Potteries in April marred by home fans' booing of visiting midfielder Aaron Ramsey and manager Arsene Wenger.

Pulis said: "It's always a special atmosphere for these games.

"They always look forward to this game. There are five or six really big games in a season and this is right up there with them.

"It is important we maintain that atmosphere that is so special when they get going.

"People talk about it but it is true. It is a massive help to us as a football team.

"Without them I don't think we would have achieved what we have achieved."