Dante Leverock is “over the moon” after signing for Narva Trans for the upcoming Estonian league season.

The Bermuda defender joins the club, who are one of only two sides never to have been relegated from the Baltic country’s top division, on a one-year deal, with the Estonian season due to start at the end of next month.

“I’m over the moon to be back in professional football,” said Leverock, the former Bermuda Hogges, Harrisburg City Islanders and Ilkeston player. “It’s been a tough road, but it feels good to be back at this level.”

The 25-year-old, who has also played for Dandy Town Hornets, as well as English non-League sides Staines Town and Leatherhead, was playing for Premier Division champions Robin Hood at the start of the season, but is more than happy to be back in Europe.

“The club is well run and have some good players,” he said. “It’s a hardworking team and [I’m] looking forward to being a part of it.

“The weather has been a challenge, but I’ve adapted. [It’s] definitely the coldest I’ve ever been, but I didn’t use that as an excuse.

“Estonian football is very physical, which I’m used to while playing in the USA so it’s been a good transition.”

Leverock also has no qualms about being outside of his “comfort zone” in the former Soviet republic, and believes his example is one more Bermudians could learn from.

“I don’t believe in being comfortable,” he said. “I’m always willing to step outside my comfort zone and it’s paid off.

“More Bermudians can play all over the world, but they have to have a strong mindset and embrace the grind.

“Now I can concentrate on football and wake up to do a job I love to do. I am fortunate.” One of the ways Leverock is getting even farther away from his comfort zone is by learning Russian.

“Narva is close to the border of Russia, so everyone speaks Russian,” the 6ft 4in centre half said. “I’ve learnt a few words already and am looking forward to spending the year here.

“I hope to play as [many] games as possible, helping the team win and be successful. “I hope to get plenty of clean sheets and a few goals as well!”