Loanee left-back Dan Harding admitted that dropping out of the Championship wasn't as big an issue as playing regular football was.

The Ipswich Town defender joined Southend on a six month loan this morning as Blues bolstered their squad further ahead of the new campaign.

And 24-year-old Harding hopes the move works out well for all parties.

"Dropping down a division is a big decision but at this point in my career I need to play games and hopefully it will work well for both parties," Harding told Blues World.

"I have come here to do well and play games for the club.

"Ipswich is only up the road so it is not far and I am happy to do the journey if it means playing football."

Meanwhile, the former England under 21 international was another play to highlight boss Steve Tilson reputation as the reason for sealing a move to Roots Hall.

"The move came about in the last couple of days and I had a bit of time to think about it and I think it is going to be great," he said.

"Other managers and people close to me have told me a lot of good things about Steve Tilson.

"Pre-season has been good, I have played a few games but I did have to have a week off because of a few personal issues at home. Other than that I have been ever present and looking forward to get going.

"I like to get up and down the flanks and get forwards, so hopefully that will help me create a few goals."

Harding has chosen squad number 23 this season, opting against the more traditional number 3 shirt.

Fans can watch the full interview with Dan over on Blues World now.