Photo courtesy of The Football League
Who should be the Championship Player of the Month? Make sure you vote in our poll on Page 5.
Simon Francis
The ever-present Bournemouth right back was part of a back four that kept 5 clean sheets in a month of 8 fixtures. The fan favourite, with over 100 appearances for the Cherries, helped keep alive the play-off dream with solid defensive displays and the attacking ability of a modern-day full-back. In the 4-1 win over Leeds, Francis provided 3 assists, each one a product of trademark forward runs and fine link-up play. Taking 19 points from 24 is a testimony to the solid defensive work of Francis that has helped Bournemouth, in the second tier for only the second time in their history, exceed all expectations. The defender told the Bournemouth Echo this week that an unbeaten end to the season is the target and with the help of his exemplary form it is not out of the question.
