Southend are keen to keep Harding

Harding says he has had an "absolutely fantastic" time at Roots Hall

Southend United boss Steve Tilson says the club is trying to strike a deal to keep on-loan Ipswich Town defender Dan Harding at the club.

The 25-year-old full-back has returned to Portman Road after spending the first half of the season with Southend in League One.

"He's a good player, a good left-back and we're trying to sort out something with Ipswich," Tilson told BBC Essex.

Harding has been a regular for Southend, making 20 appearances.

Harding said he was still unclear about his immediate future.

"I've spoken to the manager and he's going to give me a call through the week and we'll go from there," he told BBC Essex.

"I've absolutely loved my time here and I'd like to thank the players, staff and especially Steve [Tilson] for bringing me here. It's been absolutely fantastic.

"It's a decision that will have to be made by me, the gaffer and the two clubs."