David Wheater has said that he is ready to fill the void left behind by Chelsea-bound Gary Cahill.

Cahill seems likely to move to Stamford Bridge this week following protracted discussions throughout the transfer window.

Although disappointed to see Cahill leave, Wheater believes that it could hand him a chance to revive his career.

"I want to be playing and if Gaz does go I will miss him as he's a good friend of mine," said the former Middlebrough man.

"But it means there is a chance to get in the team and hopefully stay there.

"It has been stop and start for me this season. I was in the team and then got a red card and was out of it so hopefully I can stay in the team now."

Wheater joined Bolton from Middlesbrough in January 2011.