SIMON Francis reckons the arrival of Tyrone Mings gave Charlie Daniels just the jolt he needed to start showcasing his international potential.

Daniels, 29, is understood to be on the cusp of signing fresh terms at Vitality Stadium on the back of a series of stellar performances in the Premier League.

Francis lauded the ex-Spurs youngster as the club’s “standout performer” in the top flight to date, form that has seen Daniels touted for an England call-up.

And having seen his fellow full-back emerge from niggling injuries and uncertainty over his place less than 18 months ago, Francis believes the £8million arrival of Mings from Ipswich was pivotal in Daniels's renaissance.

Francis told the Daily Echo: “Ian Harte played a couple of games ahead of Chaz last season, there were times when he was in and out but then he was solid over a sustained period and nailed down his place.

“When this pre-season came round, he came back with a great mentality and showed everybody why he should be in the team.

“The Tyrone Mings signing made a difference. When a player comes in to fight for your position, you probably question whether or not you’re going to play but even when Mingsy was fit, the gaffer couldn’t leave Charlie out.

“It is all about competition for places but if you’re good enough, you keep your shirt and Charlie has done that.

"Credit to him, his success has come from his attitude being spot on and if England are watching him then that’s excellent for him and for the club to be recognised as well.”

Three Lions boss Roy Hodgson took in Saturday’s FA Cup fifth-round tie with Everton, a match in which Daniels played the full 90 minutes.

And with the forward-thinking left-back providing five league assists this season, more than any other Premier League defender, Francis says Daniels is best placed to become the Dorset club’s first senior England international.

“Our other English players have been excellent but week after week, Charlie has been so consistent and they may need some cover at left-back so you never know,” he added.

“He has been outstanding this season and gone from strength to strength in every game. I can’t speak highly enough of him, he has been top drawer and our standout performer.

“The way he bombs up and down with his height and size causes problems going forward and he is one of the fittest in the group.”

Meanwhile, Francis predicted a busy afternoon for the Cherries backline in tomorrow’s Premier League trip to Watford (3pm).

“I think it will be a tight game,” said Francis. “You always look forward to playing teams you have come up with, they are the benchmark so you set out your stall to see how good you are.

“I thought we had the better of them down here. I can’t remember them having too many clear-cut chances, we dominated from start to finish and should have won it.

“But credit to Watford, they have been excellent, especially their front two. They are a real handful and the ones we will have to keep quiet.”