El of a speech as George lifts team’s spirits

George Elokobi.

GEORGE Elokobi gave Athletic’s players a rousing pep talk that restored the team’s spirit ahead of tomorrow’s battle with lowly Scunthorpe.

The talismanic defender shouted at his glum team-mates on the coach after the Notts County game — in earshot of coaching staff and directors.

The message after the goalless draw was simple: cheer up!

“We were all a bit down after the game,” said manager Lee Johnson. “George stood up and really aggressively said, ‘listen, you lot better start livening up... I am not having this bus miserable all the way home’.

“As much as I want to be miserable when we haven’t won, I thought that was good. It wasn’t for show and just because I was there with the chairman. It had an effect.

“People started to think it wasn’t a bad point in a tough division, which leaves us still in touch.”

Five shut-outs from the last six games played is the finest defensive record since the days of Ronnie Moore.

As Athletic bid to entertain the crowd tomorrow with some goals, Johnson confirmed Elokobi’s popular interactions with fans are completely genuine.

“Something I have realised about football supporters is that they love a freak,” the manager added.

“Punters want to see something different. Gary Harkins looked like a pub player but when he was on form, played like a World Cup winner.

“George is a beast and I can hear them all giggling when he throws someone on the floor. It brings a smile to everyone. But the thing with George is that his personality is genuine. It’s not put on.”