SAM Hart has not ruled out extending his stay at Southend United.

But right now the defender remains solely focused on keeping the Shrimpers in League One.

The on loan Blackburn Rovers left-back has impressed since joining Blues in January.

And Hart, who has a year left on his Rovers contract, hinted he could be persuaded to stay at Roots Hall beyond the end of this season.

“Right now my focus has to be on the last two games of the season and keeping Southend in League One but I love this club,” said Hart.

“I’m not thinking too far ahead and I won’t be thinking about next season until the final whistle blows against Sunderland.

“I don’t know what will happen but Southend will be a massive part of my plans because I’ve taken to the place, the players, the staff and the fans.

“But we have to make sure we stay up.”

Blues boosted their survival hopes with a crucial 3-2 win against Burton Albion at Roots Hall on Monday.

And Hart was thrilled to end the Shrimpers’ 15 match winless streak.

“It was massive for us to get that victory but it had been coming,” said the left-back, who has started all 17 games since joining in January.

“We had come close against Fleetwood and Walsall and I think we took confidence from that.

“It was great to get the win and it was a real feel good factor football club again with the celebrations at the final whistle.

“But we know we have to get more points and we want them at Rochdale on Saturday.”

The Shrimpers head into the weekend’s clash sitting 19th in the League One standings, just a point above the relegation zone.

But Hart is keen to move further clear of the bottom four with a win on his return to Rochdale.

“It will be good to see some familiar faces and Rochdale is a nice club but once the game starts it’s just about making sure we get the win,” said Hart, who made 13 appearances for Dale at the start of the season.

“Rochdale will be confident because they’ve had some good results and I’m pleased they’re safe but now it’s about making sure we are too.”