Stoke sweat over Shawcross

Whitehead already ruled out through suspension

Last updated: 30th November 2009   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Stoke sweat over Shawcross

Shawcross: Injury concern

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Stoke defender Ryan Shawcross is a major doubt for next weekend's clash with Arsenal after picking up a groin problem.

Shawcross limped out of Saturday's goalless draw at Blackburn and was due to be assessed on Monday.

Of Shawcross, Potters manager Tony Pulis told the club's website: "Ryan felt something in his groin, so we pulled him off as soon as possible."

Midfielder Dean Whitehead is already out of the contest at Emirates Stadium after picking up his fifth caution of the season.

Pulis is disappointed to lose Whitehead after describing his performance at Ewood Park as his best in a Stoke shirt.

"I thought Dean produced possibly the best game he has had for us and although he missed two good chances, at the same time when we were tiring a bit at the end he was there stopping Brett Emerton from winning the game for them," Pulis said.

"Obviously, it will be a blow to lose him for the Arsenal match, but we have players waiting in the wings to come in and show us what they can do.

"So it will be an opportunity for someone to come in and do that."