Simon Francis signs new Bournemouth deal

Bournemouth defender Simon Francis has signed a new contract keeping him at the club until 2019.

The 30-year-old has been an ever-present for the South Coast side following their promotion to the Premier League this season, having joined when the Cherries were in the third tier in 2012.

"It's an easy decision for me," Francis told the club's official website. "I am really settled here and I think everyone knows that at the club. The manager and the staff know how much I enjoy it, so for me it was an easy decision as long as the ins and outs of the contract were right.

"Thankfully that has all been sorted out and it couldn't be more perfect. It means a lot to me personally because the majority of the lads in the team have been here since League One. I think the gaffer obviously recognises how well the lads have done for him."

Francis previously had spells with Sheffield United, Charlton Athletic and Southend United.