DAGENHAM & REDBRIDGE could be in new hands by the time they kick their first Non-League football in a decade in five weeks time.
The 2007 Conference champions are understood to be returning to the league they won in financial difficulty.
A hero of the past may be a hero of the future because former Daggers defender Lee Goodwin is putting together a bid to try and take over the East London club.
In addition, there is an investment of £1.25m on the table from Glenn Tamplin, who is also looking to secure an 80 per cent stake in the club relegated from League Two in May.
The club have revealed that after much consideration, the board is still of the opinion to recommend the investment from Tamplin.
Goodwin says he needs the fans' support if he and his consortium are going to take the club forward and says it's time for change if they are to push for a place back in the Football League.
The 37-year-old – caretaker manager at Thurrock four years ago – played for the Daggers between 1998 and 2008.
History
He said: “Everyone involved in this is a lifelong fan of the club. Many of us have been involved for many years and want to do something that can help.
“There will be no boom-and-bust about it like we've seen at others club – we have Dagenham at heart. There is too much history here. We are in a position to really help the club. I would feel like a coward if I didn't do this.”
Goodwin's group includes his father John, current vice-chairman Dave Ward and joint-presidents Brain and John East.
Dagenham's uncertain financial position hasn't stopped veteran manager John Still bolstering his squad this summer.
Daggers have already signed ten and there could be a number of new players still to come through the door. They have added Scott Doe, Elliot Justham and Chris Assombalonga to name just a few with veteran striker Jamie Cureton set to depart.
Goodwin added: “Last season was the first time that I have seen factions at every level of the club. There will be a tough year ahead, but there's still a chance to rectify things.
“We want to give fans more of a say because the club should be a family. The people in the consortium care, they're experienced and can take the club forward.”
