Simon Francis named Bournemouth captain

Simon Francis has been rewarded for his authoritative performances in Bournemouth's top-flight bow of 2015-16 by being handed the skipper's armband.

The 31-year-old succeeds Tommy Elphick in the role, who missed 17 matches through injury last term before moving onto Aston Villa this summer.

"I spoke to the gaffer (Eddie Howe) and he told me his intentions to make me club captain and it's just a massive privilege to have that name," said Francis.

The Nottingham native failed to make the grade at both Nottingham Forest and Notts County as a youngster, but has proven to be a consummate performer in defence since joining the Cherries from Charlton Athletic initially on loan in 2011.

He featured in every Premier League match last season, out-tackling all teammates as the club earned a respectable 16th-place finish.

Bournemouth begins its sophomore campaign in the top tier Aug. 14 against Manchester United.