Delighted Whelan agrees new Stoke deal

STOKE midfielder Glenn Whelan has agreed a new three-and-a-half-year contract, the club have confirmed.

The Republic of Ireland international, who joined from Sheffield Wednesday in 2008 for £500,000, has become an important player in central midfield having initially struggled to hold down a regular place when the Potters were promoted to the Premier League.

Whelan, 28 on Friday, also has the option for a further year after his new deal expires. Whelan has had a significant 12 months as he was part of the side which reached the FA Cup final, losing to Manchester City, and also helped Ireland qualify for Euro 2012.