Danté Leverock, the Bermuda defender, is poised to make his debut for Sligo Rovers against Dundalk in the SSC Airtricity League today.

The 26-year-old, who joined Sligo from Estonian outfit Narva Trans last December, said he is champing at the bit to make a strong impression against the defending champions at Oriel Park.

“I’m looking forward to finally get going and starting the season,” Leverock told The Royal Gazette.

“I’m feeling good coming off the end of preseason and I’m ready to start playing games now.

“It’s been a tough preseason; a lot of running and a lot of fitness. It’s been very intense, but I’ve enjoyed it.”

Rovers will face a stern test away to champions Dundalk, but it is a challenge that Leverock and his team-mates are excited about.

“Dundalk are the champions; that says it all,” Leverock said. “But it’s 11 v 11, so that’s all I focus on.

“The lads are focused and ready to have a good season. We are taking it one game at a time.”

Leverock, who captained Bermuda in their previous two Concacaf Nations League qualifiers, has made a seamless transition since joining the top-flight Irish club.

“My team-mates are a great bunch of boys and welcomed me in, so that’s always a good feeling,” said Leverock, who made 34 appearances and scored eight goals for Narva Trans last season.

“It’s a good group here; very competitive and high standards among the group, but also great atmosphere.

“There’s a lot of attention to detail from the coaches and I’m very excited to work hard.”

Leverock is the second Bermudian behind goalkeeper Freddy Hall, who spent three years at Limerick, to play in the Irish top flight.