Focused - on loan Southend United defender Ben Goodliffe
(Image: Lucy Copsey)
By Chris Phillips.Chief sports reporter.
BEN Goodliffe is focusing on Southend United’s future rather than his own.
The defender is on loan at the Shrimpers from Colchester United until the end of the season.
But the centre-back is not thinking beyond the end of the current campaign at this stage.
“I’ve got another year left at Colchester and I’m sure talks will happen once this season officially finishes,” said Goodliffe.
“There are conversations to be had about what my future looks like but I’ve come here to play football and I’ve been doing so.
“It’s been good but I’m only thinking about the game against Gateshead and making sure of the play-offs.”
Blues head to the north-east on Monday, a point ahead of eighth placed Gateshead – meaning anything other than a defeat will make sure of a place in the play-offs.
And Goodliffe is determined to help the Shrimpers extend their season.
"It will be a great result if we can get it done and a great achievement for the club too," said Goodliffe.
"Everyone has been working hard throughout the year and it would be nice to get something rewarding out of it.
"There's a lot riding on it but we have a lot of momentum and confidence going into it.
"We attack each and every game and this game is no different but the stakes are higher we know that."
Goodliffe will again be looking to play a key part and not just in defence.
The 25-year-old scored Blues' first goal in their 3-0 win against Wealdstone last weekend.
And he is happy to be hitting the back of the net more regularly.
"It’s my best season I’ve ever had in terms of goals," said Goodliffe.
"I’ve got six this year, with two for Southend and it’s been nice to get a few more goals than I normally average but hopefully there are more to come."
But Goodliffe's main goal is to help Blues get back in the league.
"This club has always got the potential to be higher," said Goodliffe.
"It’s one of the main things that attracted me to come here on loan.
"It’s been great and the stature of the club makes you hope they can achieve something big."