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Maidstone United boss John Still has big plans for ex-Wolves defender George Elokobi

John Still expects George Elokobi to have a big impact after bringing the former Premier League defender to Maidstone.

Elokobi spent three seasons in the top flight and won Championship and League 1 titles during a fine career at Wolves.

The big centre-half is 33 but still has plenty to offer and will be a key man after signing a one-year deal following his departure from Aldershot.

George Elokobi will also help out with the coaching next season
George Elokobi will also help out with the coaching next season

Stones head of football Still said: "The interesting thing with George is once we spoke to him he wanted to come.

"We explained that we felt he could come here and make a real impact.

"He's doing his coaching badges and I said we can help him with that.

"He wants to concentrate on playing but he said he'd appreciate that side of it as well to get some more knowledge.

"He always gave the impression he wanted to come and that's the big thing with the people we've signed, in that there wasn't too much persuading."

Elokobi, who has also played for Nottingham Forest, dropped into non-league with Leyton Orient two years ago and signed for Aldershot in February.

He looks a strong contender to take the captain's armband at the Gallagher, with years of experience at the top of the game to draw on.

Still said: "I always say knowledge and experience is great if you know how to use it.

"If you know how to use it, it doesn't matter what level you play at, if that makes sense, whether it's Premier League or National South.

"The best players aren't always the most skilful players, they can be the most influential players and I think he is an influential player.

"He's a good player and he's a proper man as well."

Maidstone United boss John Still Picture: Andy Jones
Maidstone United boss John Still Picture: Andy Jones

Right-back Gavin Hoyte is another high-profile arrival at Maidstone after signing from Dagenham.

The 29-year-old, who started his career at Arsenal, played under Still at the Daggers.

Still said: "Hoytey's one of my old players so I know him well and he knows me.

"That always helps and I just think when you've had people that have worked with you before, they know what to expect, and if you've had a bit of success I think they latch on to that.

"I've had Gav and his brother, Justin, and they both did well for me.

"I think he'll be a good signing because he's experienced without being old.

"He'll be ideal and he's a nice guy as well.

"Other than one, everyone we've wanted so far, we've got.

"The one we didn't get, I wasn't particularly sure we would because of the distance he'd have to travel.

"It was always going to be a stumbling block and so it proved."

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