Simon Francis was always going to be missed

If there is one symmetry about AFCB's rise up the league and the improved performances of one player in particular I would put Simon Francis as a clear winner. That he did not manage to feel well enough to play any part in the match against Huddersfield was sad for him, but also a massive loss for the team. It is not that Adam Smith did not have a good game, but Francis has that understanding with Ritchie that make the pair light up the ground when Francis is in full stride and getting around the back of defences.

Eddie Howe spoke of sparks and Simon is one of the fire lighters on the pitch for the Cherries. He provides electric pace on the right and stretches defences too well to be left out of the side when he is available to play. I even believe his cover tackling has improved massively as well.

Simon Francis should be back for the trip to Brentford.

It is not always possible for the best players to play as many games as they would like though and a rest at this stage of the season could yet benefit AFCB in the next few games if Francis can come roaring back at the top of his game. The direction Francis gives to the team and the constant failure of opposition teams to harness him is something that AFCB missed against Huddersfield, and his full recovery will be one of the major positives that Eddie Howe will look for this coming week.

Francis continues to be one of AFCB's best assets.

With Harry Arter already out for the Brentford game it is important that AFCB have as many of their leaders as they can on the pitch on Saturday in what will be one of the trickiest away fixtures in the run in of games up to May. If Simon is fit and well, AFCB have a better chance of winning - I think he is that important.