MARC Laird is keen to remain at Southend United and help the club clinch promotion this season.

The Scottish midfielder’s loan spell comes to an end after this afternoon’s game against Gillingham at Roots Hall.

But Laird does not want it to be his last appearance in a Blues shirt.

“I’ve really enjoyed my time here and hopefully something can be sorted out soon,” said Laird, who is with Southend from Leyton Orient.

“It’s been excellent here and I can’t speak highly enough of the lads at the club.

“We have a fantastic team spirit and I’ve liked being a part of things here both on and off the pitch.

“When I first came in I think we were 13th or 14th in the table so we’ve really progressed and want to keep it going.

“We want to get on another run and I want to play a part in that and help the team get promotion in to League One.”

Laird has been with Blues from Leyton Orient since October.

And he finally suffered his first defeat of his loan spell at Burton Albion on Saturday as Southend sunk to a 2-0 defeat.

“It was a disappointing result but we had 14 good ones before that and sometimes that can happen,” said Laird, 26.

“We have a quick chance to put it right against Gillingham though and hopefully it’s one we can take.”

The Gills have made an impressive start to the season and currently sit second in the League Two standings.

But Laird is confident Blues can come out on top.

“We know it’s going to be tough but we’re looking forward to the game and trying to bounce back from losing at Burton,” said Laird.

“We’ve prepared well and want to get back to winning ways.”