Stoke City boss Mark Hughes was delighted with Giannelli Imbula's form last week against Watford.

Hughes acknowledges that had he been fit last weekend, Whelan would probably have returned to action at Watford and so prevented Giannelli Imbula's successful restoration to the starting 11 after a two-and-a-half month absence.

“I thought G was excellent, it was his time, we didn't have too many options," Hughes said.

“If Glenn had been fit, I would have possibly gone with Glenn because he would have given us some defensive solidity.

“But as it was, I had no qualms putting G in. He was ready. He's had to be patient, but he's trained well and taken on board that he needed to do more and needed to do better.

“He's taken his chance and we are delighted for him because it was important he had an impact, not only for himself, but also for his team-mates as well.

“He's shown what he can offer for us and he will play more games, I'm sure."