SIMON Francis is hoping his previous encounters will stand him in good stead when he resumes battle with Wigan’s team of wingers.

The Latics boast full internationals Jean Beausejour and James McClean, while England under-21 Callum McManaman is also in their ranks.

Defender Francis, who helped Cherries to a 1-0 win over Wigan in August, told the Daily Echo: “We always look at clips of teams before we play them and I have played against all three of them this season and last.

“Beausejour started when we played them in August before McClean came on for him. I thought I did pretty well against them so can take confidence from that.

“McManaman played on the left when we met them in the cup last season so I know about him as well. I know what their strengths are but I will also be working on their weaknesses and trying to exploit them.

“They have a strong squad and we will have to give them a lot of respect. But we will go there with a lot of confidence based on our recent results.”