Midfielder Glenn Whelan has added to Ireland’s World Cup injury nightmare ahead of Friday night’s big clash with Germany.

The Stoke City midfielder has been an ever present since Giovanni Trapattoni took control four years ago.

But the Dubliner is a serious doubt for the Group C qualifier after damaging a hamstring in his club’s draw with Liverpool on Sunday.

Whelan is set to go for a scan in Dublin on Monday as Trapattoni awaits news of his walking wounded.

Sean St Ledger (hamstring) and James McClean (groin) will also be assessed by the Irish team’s medical staff before a decision is made on their availability.

The Whelan news is another blow for Trapattoni who is already without Kevin Doyle and Richard Dunne for the big match.

Manchester United youngster Robbie Brady and Sunderland midfielder David Meyler have been called into the squad.

A statement from the FAI confirmed: “Glenn Whelan will undergo a scan in Dublin before any further decision is taken.

“A decision on both Sean St Ledger and James McClean’s fitness will also be made after scans on their injuries on Monday.”