English football club Ilkeston have further strengthened their Bermuda ties with the announcement that youngster Rai Simons has signed a two-year contract.The Bermudian international’s deal will see him complete his studies with their academy while also hoping to break into the first team.Paul Scope, who helped get Simons into the fold, was pleased with the deal and believed he could achieve great things in the years to come.“We all, in Bermuda and those in Ilkeston, think Rai has something incredibly special about him. He has a lot to learn still but this is just the first step on the ladder for him, there’s a lot more to come,” said Scope.“He’s tall and strong for his age, his temperament is excellent but more importantly he has a tremendous dedication to succeed at a professional level.“I know from speaking to him during his short time at the club he is loving every minute of his experience at Ilkeston so far.“He’s a very driven young man and after conversations with his family I know they’re also delighted that he is being given this great opportunity.“But now it’s all up to Rai to make sure he makes the most of this opportunity.“He is excited, I spoke to his mother and everyone is anxious for him to get on with what needs to be done.“This also allows him to be in the shop window because as a contracted player someone can come with an offer for you.“You have so many clubs in this area of the world, anything can happen and even Leicester City have commented on the Bermuda connection with the club.“There were a few scouts at the game this weekend so that is a good thing.”Robins Manager Kevin Wilson, who couldn’t save his side from a 2-1 loss to Marine FC on Saturday, said he was pleased to have the Bermudian on board.“We’re delighted to have him signed up on a contracted basis as this lad is incredibly talented and he’s got a very bright future ahead of him.“We’re all incredibly excited to have Rai sign. He’s got a lot of potential already at such a young age. It’s a very similar situation to when we had Tyrell Waite (now at Notts County) at the club, he’s got the potential to go places in football and hopefully he can flourish here at Ilkeston.”The club currently have fellow Bermudians Antwan Russell, Lejuan Simmons, and Dante Leverock in their ranks, while Angelo Simmons and Dominique Williams have recently joined the squad on a trial basis.