ZAK Brunt is loving life at Southend United but remains unsure how long he will be staying.

The midfielder's loan spell from Sheffield United expires after Sunday’s game with Bromley.

But Brunt is still waiting to find out what will happen next.

"I need to speak to the gaffer here and Sheff U and see what’s going on for me," said Brunt.

"My goal at the end of the day is to play for Sheffield United.

"We’ll talk about the next step and if that’s staying at Southend United then I’d be more than happy to do so.

"But if it’s going somewhere else or going back to Sheff U that will have to be the case so we’ll see."

Brunt has become a popular player with the Shrimpers supporters during his loan spell, which began in October.

And the 20-year-old is keen to repay the Roots Hall faithful for their constant backing.

"The fans have been brilliant," said Brunt.

"Before I came I saw the protests on social media but I’ve come in and seen the support for myself now.

"I've just thought wow, they deserve so much.

"If I can give them a little bit back then that’s what I’ll try to do but I want to put a smile on their face and make sure they enjoy their football."

Brunt has made 10 appearances since signing for the Shrimpers and is still relishing his first taste of senior men's football.

"I’m still really enjoying it," said Brunt.

"I’m loving it now we’re starting to get more good results and it’s a good place to be.

"The environment is good and the boys are pushing every day to get wins."

Blues remain just above the relegation zone but drew 1-1 at promotion pushing Bromley on Sunday.

And Brunt felt the draw showed the progress being made by the Shrimpers.

“It was a good performance which I felt was key because we wanted to show things are coming together,” said Brunt.

They’re a top team in this league and could’ve gone top of the league if they’d won.

“For us to be gutted not to get three points shows how far we’ve come in the last few months but is also shows how far we can go as well.”

Blues are due to take on Bromley again this Sunday, although the game is in doubt due to positive Coronavirus tests in the Southend squad.

But, if the game does go ahead, Brunt does mind if he plays out wide or in a more central position.

“It’s good for my development playing in different positions and I’m happy to play wherever the gaffer thinks I can help the team,” said Brunt.

“I think I’m an attacking midfielder and I like to get on the ball centrally but even when I’ve been put out on the right I’ve been given the license from the gaffer to roll inside and get on the ball.

“It’s been good and I feel like I’ve built a good link with JD (Jason Demetriou) too.

“We’ve got a good understanding and wherever I’ve played I’ve not minded because the players around me have made it easier for me.”