Whelan ready for Valencia

Stoke take on Spaniards in last 32 of Europa League



Stoke City midfielder Glenn Whelan thinks the Potters can surprise a few people when they face Valencia on Thursday.

City take on the Spanish side in their Europa League Round of 32 first leg clash at the Britannia Stadium and the Republic of Ireland international is looking forward to mixing it with the Spaniards.

"Absolutely nobody gave us a chance of getting through the qualifying rounds in the summer, let alone qualifying beyond the group stage, so we will go into this game with the belief that we can come through it," Whelan told the club's official website. "We know it's going to be incredibly difficult because Valencia are a top class side with huge tradition, fantastic history and a great set of players. "But, that said, if we go into the game worrying about them, then we may as well not turn up." He added: "We have shocked a few people with our results and performances in Europe already this season, so there is no reason why that can't continue to be the case in this match. "We aren't favourites, but that is a good thing for us - we have nothing to lose." - http://www1.skysports.com/