BLUES boss Steve Tilson wants to keep Dan Harding at the club until at least the end of the season.

And he will also try to bring Lee Sawyer back to Roots Hall.

The duo have both impressed during loan spell with the Shrimpers.

But Tilson knows their futures could be out of his hands and will eventually be decided by their own sides.

“I would like Dan to stay here but at the end of the day it’s going to be Ipswich’s decision,” the 42-year-old told the Echo.

“He’s done well for us and I’ve spoken to him already about his future.

“If nothing happens then he would love to stay but if Ipswich decide to sell him to get a bit of money then there is nothing we can do about it.”

Harding has been on loan from the Championship club since the start of the season and has produced a series of consistent performances at left-back.

He has made 17 appearances so far for the Seasiders but his current deal at Roots Hall expires in just four weeks time.

Harding, 24, seems to have no long-term future at Ipswich but, with his contract there expiring at the end of the season Jim Magliton’s side could opt to cash in while they can.

Tilson is also waiting to for news on Sawyer who was in fine form during his three month loan spell with Southend.

The 19-year-old scored three goals in 13 games while at Roots Hall from Chelsea before returning to Stamford Bridge in mid-November.

The midfielder is unlikely to figure in the Premier League and Tilson wants to see him back at Blues.

“Lee did ever so well for us when he was here,” confirmed the Seasiders chief.

“We are trying to bring him back but again it’s out of our hands. Much will depend on what Chelsea do and who else becomes interested if they decide to sell him.”

>FRANCIS Laurent has put pen to paper on an extended two year deal with the Shrimpers.

As revealed in Echosport last week, the French forward has committed his long term future to the League One club.

“It’s great news that it’s all been sorted now,” confirmed Tilson.

>BLUES’ reserve team match at Colchester, which was due to be played tomorrow, has been postponed.