Source: Team_Talk
Whelan ready to fight for place
Stoke City midfielder Glenn Whelan knows he has a massive fight on his hands to regain his starting place in Tony Pulis' team.[LNB] The Republic of Ireland international has been restricted to just three Premier League starts this season, his last coming in Stoke's 2-1 win at Newcastle in September.[LNB]Whelan was disappointed he was not recalled when the team were going through their bad patch, a spell that ended with wins over Birmingham and Liverpool, and knows it will even be harder to win back his place now.[LNB]"The last week we've had two great results and I know it's going to be tough," he told Sky Sports News.[LNB]"I was hoping maybe because we went on a run of four or five without a result there could be changes, but the manager stuck with them.[LNB]"I know there's going to be suspensions and injuries coming around so when I get a chance I have to try and take it."[LNB]Whelan is currently away on international duty with Republic of Ireland and is expected to start Wednesday's friendly with Norway.[LNB]The game will also see his Stoke team-mates Jonathan Walters and Marc Wilson make their international debuts and Whelan believes the pair will impress.[LNB]"For Jonny being a centre forward and an attacking player it's important for him to try and get a goal if he gets some minutes," he continued.[LNB]"I think people know what Marc is about. He's still only a young lad, but he's very good on the ball. He's very calm and collected as well and can pick out a pass. From what I've seen I know he'll be a top player."
