On-loan Town defender Dan Harding says he would like to spend the rest of the season with Southend United. The left-back's current spell is up at the end of the year.

Harding said: "I guess Ipswich might have some say in the situation when the loan runs out, but if it's left to me then I would love to stay at Southend.

"I've settled in really well. The manager, players and fans have all made me feel very welcome, I've been playing games and the team is doing well too, so of course it's been enjoyable for me.”

Harding's Town contract is up next June and the Blues may try to negotiate a permanent deal with the Shrimpers in order to avoid the former Leeds and Brighton man leaving on a free transfer in the summer.

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