Summer deal is next step in Davide Somma's big footballing adventure

On-loan Lincoln City striker Davide Somma has racked up the air miles in pursuit of a successful football career but he is hoping to put the travelling on hold as he maps out a long-term future in the English game.

South African forward Somma, who is out of contract at Leeds United at the end of the season, joined the Imps late last month following a "horrible" spell on loan at Lincoln's League Two rivals Chesterfield earlier in the campaign.

The Johannesburg-born hitman, who moved to the USA with his family as a child, when they won a green card, has made an impressive start to his career with the Imps.

He followed up his goal-scoring debut in the 1-1 home draw against Crewe nine days ago with an impressive, all-action performance in the 1-1 stalemate at league leaders Rochdale on Saturday.

"I got off to a good start against Crewe and that was important. I need to score goals and get used to the English game," said the stylish forward.

"I have got until the end of the season and I am leaving my options open but I am hoping to make a career out of the game in England."

Somma lived in Florida as he grew up and quickly carved out a niche as a prolific striker in high school football before spending a year playing minor college football in Texas.

He then went to Italy with Perugia, Pro Vasto and Olbia before returning Stateside in 2008 with the San Jose Earthquakes, where he was a team-mate of former Imps legend Darren Huckerby.

"Darren recommended England to me," said the 6ft 1ins striker.

"I came on a one-month's trial and I made it and I have been here about four-and-a-half months now.

"I have not played many games for Leeds but if I do well, then you never know what might happen.

"I did spend a month on loan at Chesterfield but that was horrible. I missed my first penalty (against Crewe) and then I injured both my hamstrings.

"But, I am back now, and hopefully a lot stronger."

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