SKIPPER SIMON’S REGRET

BOURNEMOUTH skipper Simon Francis can relegate Sunderland today – 14 years after snubbing a move to the Stadium of Light. Former Black Cats boss Mick McCarthy tried to sign Francis from Bradford but the defender joined Sheffield United instead. Now Francis (left) could help put the Black Cats out of their misery and he said: “I could have joined Sunderland and it is one of my few regrets that I didn’t. “I went to Sheffield instead and it didn’t work out as well as I hoped and I didn’t play as many games as I’d have liked. “But that is history now and my ® only focus is on Bournemouth. We all know the task at hand and we still have work to do.”

Bournemouth need one more win to guarantee a third season in the Premier League.

Tough

Cherries boss Eddie Howe said: “Any away game in the Premier League is very tough and going to Sunderland will be no different.

“We don’t underestimate them at all. While there is hope of staying up Sunderland will keep going, especially with the manager they have got and the challenges that he has faced in his career.

“The biggest thing is making sure we don’t lose our focus.”

Goalkeeper Artur Boruc has seen his contract extended until summer 2018 after triggering an appearancerelated clause.

The Polish ace, 37, has played in all but two league matches this season and Howe said: “Artur has been in great form for us of late.

“He was crucial for us in the Championship, transferring that into the Premier League.

“He’s been a consistent performer. Artur has won us points this season and had such a big impact for us.”