 In March 2012, Whelan made his 37th international appearance for the Republic of Ireland, with all of his caps coming whilst at Stoke he surpassed Gordon Banks' record becoming Stoke's most capped player.In the summer of 2012, Stoke signed midfielders Charlie Adam and Steven Nzonzi and Whelan's place in the side came under threat but he 'lifted his game' and retained his place for 2012–13 season.He avoided a ban after a 'two footed' tacked on Manchester City's Javi García in the FA Cup.