Bothroyd will miss the clash with Swansea after picking up his fifth booking of the season against Norwich.
“Jay is on fire so losing him for the derby is a massive blow for us,” said Whittingham. “He came into this match with four bookings so it was always going to be hard for him.
“This yellow card was a bit harsh. He was trying to win the ball and help the team. But we have got a great squad here, and there are people who can come into the side and do well.
“There are players on the bench who are just as good as Jay. We face Swansea next and I’m sure all the lads are thinking about that match now.
“Swansea have just had such a good victory of their own, at Crystal Palace, and they’re not that far behind us. So it’s a massive game.”
