EDDIE Howe admitted Cherries had missed Simon Francis during the captain's suspension – and said he would welcome back the defender with open arms.

Francis has sat out Cherries' past three games – the FA Cup defeat to Millwall, the Premier League loss at Hull and Saturday's draw with Watford – due to a ban.

Cherries appealed against the skipper's dismissal against Arsenal earlier this month but that was rejected by the Football Association.

However, with his suspension now complete, Francis is available to boss Howe for Tuesday's home clash with Crystal Palace.

The return of the former Charlton man is a timely boost for Howe, who saw Nathan Ake recalled by parent club Chelsea earlier this month.

Another option at centre-half, Marc Wilson, has been struggling with a hamstring injury.

Howe told the Daily Echo: "Simon's return will give us more options from a defensive perspective.

"I think we have missed our captain. He has been in good form this season so we will be delighted to welcome him back to the team."