Whelan aims to face Hammers

Potters midfielder looking to improve his goals output

Last updated: 14th October 2009   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Whelan aims to face Hammers

Whelan: Hopes to be fit

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Glenn Whelan is optimistic he will be fit for Stoke City's game with West Ham United on Saturday after picking up an injury on international duty.

The Republic of Ireland midfielder suffered a minor calf complaint after scoring in his country's 2-2 draw with World Cup holders Italy at the weekend.

The injury, combined with a one-match suspension, means Whelan will miss Ireland's final group qualifier against Montenegro on Wednesday.

Whelan is awaiting the results of a scan on the problem, but is hoping he will be available for West Ham's weekend visit to the Britannia Stadium.

"We don't know if it's a slight strain or a pull," said Whelan in The Sentinel. "We've had it scanned and the results will tell us more.

"But personally, I would like to think I'm in with a chance on Saturday.

"The physio doesn't think it's too bad and I hope to join in training today after resting for the last few days."

Whelan scored a stunning opener for Ireland against Italy and is now keen to improve his goal tally after netting just four times in 53 appearances for Stoke.

He added: "It's definitely up there as one of the greatest moments of my career.

"You can't ask for much more than scoring a goal like that, against the world champions and in your own backyard.

"Before the game, I was asked if I should score more goals and I agreed that I should. Now I hope I can get a few more."