Dublin-born goalkeeper Godwin caught the eye of the City scouts while playing in his homeland for Home Farm and then Shamrock Rovers. He made the switch to Filbert Street in September 1949 but had to wait until late November for his debut, playing in the home clash against Swansea City.

His arrival in Leicester came just days after playing in goal and helping the Republic of Ireland to a shock 2-0 win over England but his place in the first team was always under threat from Johnny Anderson, a future Scottish international. Still, Godwin made 45 league appearances for the Foxes in just over two years before he was put on the transfer list at his own request.

It was actually at Bournemouth, his next club, where he really settled and got most first-team action - playing a total of 357 games for the Cherries. He also enjoyed a testimonial at the Dean Court club in 1962 against West Ham and played for just one other club after Bournemouth - a short stint with Dorchester Town.