Wolves boss Mick McCarthy has high hopes George Elokobi will be a hit in the Premier League next season.

The powerful left-back is on his way back, after missing all but the first three league games of the season with cruciate knee ligament damage.

Many at the club are optimistic the 23-year-old can cut it at the highest level and he was rewarded with a contract extension to 2012 a few months ago.

Despite his humble beginnings playing Sunday league and non-league just five years ago, McCarthy is looking forward to the former Colchester man testing himself against the cream of world football.

The manager said: “George signed a new deal with us, that’s how highly we think of him.

“So George will be a part of it and we’re really looking forward to him being fit. He’s coming on fantastically well. He’s great.

“He’s doing some football work so he’s buzzing and flying now. He warms up with us then he works with Steve Weaver (development coach).”

McCarthy has also ruled out Chris Iwelumo for the last two games.

The Scotland international, who has scored 16 goals this season, had been widely expected to sit out the rest of the season after suffering medial ligament damage against Blues on April 6.

The Molineux Chief said: “He might as well rest and get himself ready for next season.”