"Absolutely unreal" - that's the verdict from George Elokobi as he prepares for a possible tilt at facing the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo in the Premier League barely five years after he was turning out for Dulwich Hamlets.

And, in keeping with the views of boss Mick McCarthy who awarded him a new contract believing him to be one for the future, the Cameroon-born left back is confident he can cut the mustard on the higher stage.

George, continuing his rehabilitation from the cruciate knee injury which limited his impact to just four appearances this season, now has much to aim for.

"It feels unbelievable to be a Premier League player, absolutely unreal," he says.

"From chairman to tea lady it's been a great effort and the boys have been magnificent out on the pitch.

"To achieve this as a team together is fantastic and you could see how much it meant from the celebrations.

"Saturday was a very special day.

"From day one the gaffer has never doubted me and he gave me a new contract.

"And I believe I can play in the Premier League as well.

"I just need to get myself ready for pre-season but I'm raring to go to try and prove I can do it.

"I've come a long way from when I came to England was then playing for Dulwich - hopefully I can make them proud."

George may not have kicked a ball since late August but his impact behind the scenes has been considerable, his ever-lively demeanour serving as inspiration to his team-mates and certainly prominent among Saturday's post-match celebrations (see picture).

"From starting pre-season I always felt we would be able to better what we did last season and that we had a genuine chance of promotion," he added.

"I got injured early on but the way the boys have worked just inspired me to work extra hard to try and get myself fit again.

"If I've contributed in any way behind the scenes as well then that's great."

His vacant left back berth was filled to impressive levels by Stephen Ward, whilst Matt Hill and George Friend have also performed well down the left hand side.

"Wardy has been immense this season and I've always said that," says George.

"I call him 'Robo-Ward'.

"That's the nickname I give him because he's been so rock-solid for us at the back even though it wasn't his position.

"Matty Hill also came in and did well and so did George Friend so credit to them as well.

"They've all done it together."