Stoke City boss Tony Pulis is adamant his players won't freeze on the big stage at Liverpool this weekend.

He said: "We must not get rolled away from what our objectives are. Of course it will be a fantastic occasion, but we won't be star gazing.

"I've never managed at Anfield before and this will be the first time some of our players have been there. We will give it our best shot and try to get something from the game.

"I'm sure I will get a response from the players and if we get a bit of luck, and have a strong referee who gives us as much as he gives Liverpool, we will have a chance."

Pulis expects his opposite number Rafael Benitez to make changes on Saturday after Liverpool's considerable exertions against Manchester United last weekend and in Marseille on Tuesday.

And he admitted he watched with as much admiration as anyone as Steven Gerrard scored his memorable first goal in the Stade Velodrome.

He said: "It was a special goal from a special player. He played in a role I like to see him play, just behind the forwards, and he was fantastic.

"He's an uncontrollable spirit who just loves to play football. He's likely to pop up anywhere on the field and I certainly wish we had him in our side."