Premier League cult hero nicknamed ‘The Body’ secures first job in management at just 37

A FORMER Premier League cult hero nicknamed ‘The Body’ has secured his first job as a manager aged 37.

George Elokobi was a popular figure throughout his six-year spell at Wolves.

George Elokobi understandably earned the nickname ‘The Body’

Elokobi is most famous for his time at WolvesDave Pinegar – The Sun

And the ripped 6ft centre-back earned a reputation for his incredible physique.

Now the former defender is hoping to make a name for himself in management after taking the Maidstone United gig.

Elokobi was caretaker manager following Hakan Hayrettin’s dismissal on January 9.

He’s now taken the reins on a permanent basis.

The Cameroon-born icon is tasked with keeping Maidstone in the National League.

The Mighty Stones currently sit seven points adrift at the bottom of the table with time running out to avoid an immediate return to National League South.

Elokobi finished his playing career with Maidstone, captaining the club for three years until his retirement last year.

That ended a run of non-league clubs including Braintree, Leyton Orient and Aldershot.

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But it was his spell at Molineux that Elokobi is best remembered.

He joined from Colchester in 2008 and went on to make 103 appearances for Wolves – including 58 in the Premier League from 2009 to 2012.

His post-match antics, though, caused as much of a talking point as handling some of the world’s best strikers.

Elokobi would take his top off on the pitch following the full-time whistle, leaving fans in awe and no doubt team-mates jealous.

He told the Daily Mail in 2011: “It was a spur-of-the-moment thing. It started with Colchester against Birmingham.

“I always take my top off now. I’ve got a good physique!

“Even when it’s cold, as long as my hands are okay, I’m fine. I can’t play when my hands are cold, though.”

The topless tradition was justified given his bulking physiqueGetty Images – Getty

Getty – ContributorThe former defender started out at Colchester and is now Maidstone manager[/caption]  Read More 

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