BLACKBURN Rovers left-back Sam Hart is ‘buzzing’ to have joined Southend United on loan for the remainder of the season.

Hart will be with Blues until the end of the campaign.

And the 22-year-old cannot wait to line-up for the Shrimpers.

“I’m buzzing to be here and I’m ready to kick on and get started,” said Hart.

“I was with Blackburn in League One last season as well as Rochdale on loan earlier this season so I’ve seen it for a couple of years now, I’ve played in it and hopefully I can kick on.

“It was invaluable for me to go to Rochdale and learn.

“I’ve done that now and I’m happy to carry on learning here.

“I want to try and play as many games as possible and do well for the team, that’s what any footballer wants to do.”

Hart, who will wear the number 42 shirt for Blues, came through the youth ranks at Liverpool at the start of his career and spent time on loan with Port Vale during the 2016/17 season.

The defender was snapped up by Blackburn at the end of that campaign but has made just seven appearances for Rovers so far.

However, Blues boss Chris Powell, himself a former left-back, is thrilled to have brought Hart to Roots Hall.

“It’s been bubbling for a while and I’m pleased to have got it done,” said Powell.

“Sam’s got experience of going out on loan already at Port Vale and Rochdale, which I always think is very good.

“We were close to getting it done last week but it’s been ratified now and we’re really pleased.”

Hart now seems set to make his Shrimpers debut at Bradford City this weekend.

And Powell is certain the defender will make a good impression.

“He’s a player that catches the eye and is very forceful from left-back,” said the Blues boss.

“He loves a tackle, he’s got good height and can definitely go forward.

“I’ve spoken to Tony Mowbray about him and he said he came back from his last loan experience a different player and they see him as one for the future. We hope to help him and that he can help us for the rest of the season.”

Blues are also in talks to sign a striker.