Whitehead was a trainee with Oxford United

Stoke boss Tony Pulis has praised Dean Whitehead after his display in the goalless draw against Blackburn Rovers on Saturday.

The Potters manager was delighted with the 27-year-old's display even though he missed two scoring opportunities.

"That's probably his best performance," Pulis told BBC Radio Stoke.

"We're disappointed he hasn't scored. They were two good chances, but his legs and his energy to get up with the front players was magnificent."

Whitehead, who could cost the Potters up to £5 million following his move from Sunderland in July, has played a part in every Premier League game for Stoke this season, starting 12 of their 14 matches.

But he will miss the game at Arsenal on Saturday through suspension, after picking up his fifth yellow card of the season.

Pulis is also waiting on the fitness of defender Ryan Shawcross, who was forced off just after half-time at Blackburn with a groin problem.

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