Dermot Gallagher: 'Bournemouth's Simon Francis should have been sent off'

Former Premier League official Dermot Gallagher has claimed that Bournemouth defender Simon Francis was fortunate to avoid a red card against West Ham United.

During the first half of the 3-3 draw at the Vitality Stadium, Francis's boot made contact with the head of Cheikhou Kouyate but the right-back only received a yellow card.

However, while Francis's part in the incident appeared to be accidental, Gallagher has suggested that the referee should have given the player a straight red.

Gallagher told Sky Sports News: "If you put your boot in somebody's face with your studs, I do not say it was malicious and I do not think he has in any way, shape or form gone to hurt him.

"But he has a duty of care to his opponent and if you put your boot that high - and it is that high, it is not as though the player has ducked, his studs go in his face - I think it is a red card and most referees would agree with me."

During the closing stages of the game, referee Bobby Madley also wrongly awarded a goal to Bournemouth which ultimately gave the south coast outfit a share of the spoils.