Billy Sharp puts future talk to one side as he focuses on Nottingham Forest

After falling out of favour at Southampton, Sharp linked up with Nottingham Forest on a season-long loan last summer.

A proven marksman at Football League level, he has helped to put the Reds in promotion contention.

It has been speculated that Forest will look to bring him on board full-time, regardless of what division they find themselves in next term, but Sharp admits he is keeping his options open.

He told the Nottingham Evening Post: "It would be nice if the club I am contracted to were in the Premier League and the club I have been on loan to were as well.

"That would put me in a strong position at the end of the season. That is why I wanted to sign for the full season. I wanted to be settled. I wanted to help the club achieve something special.

"That has given me a good feeling - and hopefully we can achieve something.

"I have been on loan for the season and I have played under three managers. So there has been a certain amount of uncertainty.

"I have seen the rumours in the media that I am going to sign permanently. I have spoken to the gaffer about one or two things.

"But at the minute, I just want to do my job to the best of my ability to help Forest get in a stronger position and, hopefully, to get promotion."