Okocha gives his blessing

Replaced Bolton Wanderers skipper Jay-Jay Okocha has given his blessing to new skipper Kevin Nolan.

Okocha believes the 23-year-old England prospect commands the respect of everyone at the club and can go on and become a legend at the club, joining the likes of Nat Lofthouse.

The Nigerian star said: "Kevin has been outstanding this season and when he was given the captaincy following my recent injury lay-off he stepped up another gear,

"He's a natural leader and, although he is relatively young, he commands respect from all the players.

"I've no doubt in my mind that Kevin can go on to create a legacy at this football club and become one of its most famous players."

Okocha admitted he was proud to have been captain but accepted it was time to hand Nolan the honour.

He told the club's website: "It goes without saying it has been one of the greatest accolades of my playing career,

"Whenever I wore that captain's armband and led the team onto the pitch I always felt a great surge of pride.

"However, I now agree that it is time to hand the armband over to my colleague, Kevin Nolan."