Maidstone United manager Hakan Hayrettin adds George Elokobi to his coaching staff

Former captain George Elokobi is back with Maidstone in a coaching capacity.

Elokobi, who retired from playing at the end of last season, has joined Hakan Hayrettin’s backroom team.

He’s on board as first-team coach and was at the Gallagher Stadium for Saturday’s 1-0 win over Torquay.

Hayrettin said at the end of last season he wanted to keep Elokobi at the club in some capacity.

They held initial talks over a coaching role in the summer, with Hayrettin, who takes his side to Aldershot today, delighted to have struck a deal with the 36-year-old.

“George is going to be working with me, it’s a step up in his other education,” said the Stones boss.

“Everyone knows I’m close with George, he’ll add something, for sure.

“George is vocal, George is an inspiration, George is a big character and a big personality and I think George will definitely add something to what we’ve got.”

Aldershot have had an extra day’s rest, having played Oldham on Friday night, a match they lost 2-1 in added time.

The Shots are second-bottom of the National League, having lost four of their five games, their only points coming courtesy of a 2-1 win at Boreham Wood.

Maidstone are four points better off in 13th place, buoyed by James Alabi’s late winner over Torquay.

The Stones will have to make at least one change with defender Kodi Lyons-Foster, who’s on loan from Aldershot, unable to face his parent club.

That’s likely to mean a return to the starting XI for Jack Cawley at centre-half.

Hayrettin knew Lyons-Foster would have to sit out the Aldershot game but wanted the deal done in time for Torquay.

“I just wanted him in as quickly as possible,” said Hayrettin.

“For me, what was important was the Torquay game. Monday’s another game.

“I’ve brought him