Fulham defender Liam Fontaine, on loan at Bristol City, is hoping to end the season with a triple cause for celebration, despite City's narrow failure to reach the play-offs.

The on-loan defender wants to finish the campaign on a winning note at Southend United on Saturday and then receive a contract offer from either Fulham or City.

But uppermost in his mind at the moment is partner Natasha, who is due to give birth to their first child this week.

The baby is actually due on Saturday. But Liam told today that he is hopeful of an early arrival to allow him to play at Southend.

He told the club website: "There have already been a few signs and we have been told the baby could be born at any time now.

"I've got my mobile phone in my pocket waiting for the call. Ideally, I would love the baby to arrive in the next few days so I can then concentrate fully on the game at Southend."

Liam admits that his future is still uncertain, but hopes for some firm news in that respect over the next couple of weeks.

He said: "I haven't heard anything from Fulham. If they are going to offer me a contract it needs to be soon because the deadline is later this month.

"I don't know if they have been following my progress here. I've really enjoyed my time at Ashton Gate and if City were to make me an offer of course I would consider it.

"I like working with the gaffer and it has been good to play regular first team football in a team doing well. Whatever happens it has been a very important spell in my career."