Erik Samuelson is on the verge of becoming an AFC Wimbledon legend, according to one who already holds that status.

Terry Brown took Dons into the Football League in 2011, elevating himself to hero-like status at the Cherry Red Record stadium.

However, taking Dons back home to Merton borough would, in Brown’s eyes, be the greater achievement.

Dons planning proposals are in the hands of Merton council, with any decision likely to be after the May 7 elections.

If passed, it will signal an emotional home-coming for Samuelson and all Dons fans who have been exiled from Wimbledon since leaving Plough Lane in 1991.

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Brown said: “Being in Wimbledon is an integral part of what the club is, and what their aims and ambitions are. “It’s their home and it’s only right that they should be able to go home.

“Erik [Samuelson] has given the past 10 years of his life to Dons and if he can get them back to Wimbledon he will probably go down as the greatest man in the club’s history.

“Certainly, greater than any chief executive who has gone before him.”

The 62-year-old, who manages Ryman Premier Division high-fliers Margate, also believes getting a new stadium is key to the club’s progression.

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Back on the old stomping ground: Terry Brown presides over Margate during a recent trip to the CRRS to face Kingstonian

He said: “Neal [Ardley] has done a wonderful job to get them pushing towards the top of the table.

“They are not a million miles away from the play-offs and it would be a tremendous achievement if they could get there.

“I’d like to see them get to League One, but whether they are ready for that next step is another thing.

“It is all about money at that level and I’m pretty sure building a new stadium is going to take up a lot of resources, so it will be an interesting balancing act.”

Samuelson said: “It is typical of Terry to say such things and I am flattered, but it is seriously over the top.”

He joked: “He won’t be getting anymore complimentary tickets, whatever he says.”