CRAIG Short is fighting to be fit for one final season of top flight football.

The Blackburn Rovers centre back, whose contract expires this summer, wants one more campaign before retiring.

Short has dismissed speculation linking him with a summer move to Sheffield United - but it's something he hasn't ruled out in the future.

"I've not played enough games this year, only about eight, so I'm in no position to speak to anyone about contracts or moves anywhere else," said Short.

"At the moment I'm just trying to get as many games in here as I can.

"The main injury has been my knee so I need to keep on top of that and keep working to stay fit.

"I'm 36 this summer so wherever I am I'll be playing another year. Mark Hughes, Dave Watson and Richard Gough all played at the top until they were 38 and I've always aimed to play until I'm 37.

"I'd love to stay here but I'm not knocking on anyone's door. It's up to me get games and performances in, I know that."

But if Short doesn't get a one-year extension at Ewood and finds himself looking elsewhere for his swansong in professional football, Sheffield United would seem the most obvious option.

Their manager Neil Warnock took Short with him on their journey from the Conference at Scarborough to the top flight with Notts County in the late 80s and early 90s.

And any possible re-union has not been ruled out by Short, especially as United's progress under Warnock could lead to them teaming up in the Premiership next year.

Short added: "I don't know where this speculation has come from but I have said before I'd like to play for Neil Warnock again. I started my career with him and still speak to him.

"But the Nationwide League is harder than the Premiership because you have 46 games and smaller squads so you end up playing more.

"It's nice to know people still want me but I'm really happy here as long as I can get some games in. What happens after that happens."

Short had another injury setback when he missed last Wednesday's draw with Newcastle after suffering back spasms, but he should return for Saturday's Premiership trip to Charlton.