It seems as if the Cardiff Blues have toured most of Europe over the last two months and head coach Danny Wilson is determined to ensure his side enjoy a happy homecoming this weekend.

The Blues have not played at BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park since the opening weekend of the season, when they racked up 11 tries against Zebre.

Since then they’ve travelled to all four Irish provinces before suffering a reverse defeat to Zebre last weekend, but Cardiff finally welcome back their team on Saturday.

Defending champions Glasgow Warriors are the opponents and Gregor Townsend’s men have only recorded two victories on the road in the GUINNESS PRO12 since February – one of which was last season’s Final at the
Kingspan Stadium.

In contrast the Blues will look to build upon an impressive recent home record, having won their last four matches in the league at BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park.

But Glasgow did get back on track with a victory against Ospreys in Round 6 and Wilson admits they are an example to follow in his first year as head coach in Cardiff.

Wilson said: "It's fantastic to be coming home after two months away from BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park and we're looking forward to the clash with Glasgow Warriors.

"Our opening day victory over Zebre was a special occasion and it's vital we make our home a difficult place for any team to visit.

"Glasgow are a very talented side, who showed last weekend against Ospreys what they are capable of. Gregor Townsend and his coaching team have done a fantastic job over the last few years and they are the model for many teams to follow.”

Prop Taufa'ao Filise will become the first player to hit a double century of appearances for the Blues while Wales stars Gethin Jenkins, Sam Warburton and Kristian Dacey all return.

A new midfield partnership will see fit-again Gavin Evans play at inside centre, Samoa international Rey Lee-Lo will make his debut for Cardiff Blues and Wales wing Alex Cuthbert also comes back in.

"We're delighted to welcome back our Welsh internationals and Rey Lee-Lo will also make his home debut,” Wilson added.

"While Rey will make his first appearance we have Taufa'ao Filise making his 200th appearance which is a staggering feat.

"To play that many games for a team is a wonderful achievement and testament to his dedication and durability. We congratulate him on this special milestone."

The Warriors have also bolstered their squad with the return of Stuart Hogg, Mark Bennett, Finn Russell, Jonny Gray, Josh Strauss and Ryan Grant to the matchday 23.

There are 20 internationals in the squad – and 15 full international caps in the Warriors starting line-up.

And Townsend is expecting a high-octane match as his side look to round out the first block of GUINNESS PRO12 games by returning to the top half of the league.

"Cardiff Blues have been on the road for a few games and could be boosted by the return of Welsh internationals, so we're expecting a very tough match tomorrow afternoon,” he said.

"The Arms Park is a special place to play and the artificial surface tends to promote high-paced rugby.

"This week we once again welcome back another group of Scotland internationals, which means competition within our squad is increasing all the time."

At BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park, 3pm. Live on Sky Sports
Referee: Marius Mitrea (FIR, 43rd competition game)
Assistant Referees: Rhys Thomas, Gwyn Morris (both WRU)
Citing Commissioner: Aurwel Morgan (WRU)
TMO: Gareth Simmonds (WRU)