Stoke City midfielder Glenn Whelan admits his success with the Republic of Ireland has helped him secure a regular start at club level.

"My breakthrough with Ireland helped me at Stoke because, at the time, I wasn't playing for my club," said Whelan.

"Hopefully, I've given the Stoke manager something to think about with those international games. I got back in [the Stoke team] at Christmas time and I've been fortunate enough to stay in."