Alex Pearce has revealed he is not considering his future until the end of the season.

The Derby County defender has made just one appearance for the Rams this term and was loaned out to Millwall in January for the rest of the season.

The 30-year-old defender has impressed in south London and is set to be a free agent at the end of the season.

But Pearce is not concentrating on what the future holds for him, and instead is keeping his eyes on the present and helping the Lions avoid relegation to League One.

Frank Lampard’s men have had limited defensive options since Curtis Davies injury and Pearce’s loan away, but having been a hit at The Den, the Rams boss could consider a new deal for the Pride Park pariah.

If that does not materialise, then he would become a free agent at the expiration of his current contract.

But Pearce has shelved talk on his Derby future – or any for that matter – until the campaign has concluded.

“Sometimes in football, you have to be patient, but if you ask any footballer, they all want to play - I’m no different,” Pearce said.

“But whoever’s picked you get behind them and hope for the best result.

“I’m just thinking about the final games of the season, to be honest. I don’t want to be thinking too far ahead.”

The verdict

Pearce has impressed at Millwall and with a lack of defensive options, Derby fans may be wondering why he was allowed to be loaned out.

His contract is up in the summer, and realistically, he wouldn’t feature much for the Rams if he were to sign a new deal.

Pearce’s Pride Park career looks to be over, and Millwall look in prime position to snap him up in the summer.

It makes sense, however, to not worry about what will take care of itself after impressing there will be suitors – and he needs to focus on the task at hand right now.