Dagenham & Redbridge left back Femi Ilesanmi is eagerly anticipating Edgar Davids’ visit to Victoria Road.

Daggers defender Femi Ilesanmi grew up idolising Dutchman Edgar Davids, watching him playing on the European stage on TV.

And he could come up against someone he calls his “role model” as Daggers face League Two rivals Barnet tomorrow (Saturday).

Davids arrived at Underhill in mid-October in a bid to boost the Bees fortunes on the pitch, after taking a player- assistant manager role at the club.

And Ilesanmi, 21, is set to line up against the vastly experienced midfielder, something he never thought he would do in his own career.

“I used to watch him on the TV and used to be in awe of what he did on the pitch,” said Ilesanmi.

“To be playing against him is amazing, he was one of the players I looked up to when I was growing up and he was a role model of mine.”

Ilesanmi believes Daggers cannot afford to take the Bees for granted, but feels if they replicate their recent form his side should come away with the three points.

“We know it’s going to be tough but it has been a good week of training,” he added.

“You can’t underestimate teams, but we are strong at home and we are certainly capable of winning.”

Ilesanmi’s performances saw him shortlisted for the League Two player of the month for November, which was won by Northampton’s Adebayo Akinfenwa and the former AFC Wimbledon youngster was just pleased his performances have been noticed.

“It’s a great feeling to be nominated alongside two strikers,” he added.

“It’s almost unheard of for a left-back to get noticed as strikers are the ones who tend to get noticed.

“It’s pleasing and proves I’m doing okay, but I have to keep producing good performances.”