VERSATILE defender Simon Francis believes improving Cherries are primed for a challenge to the League One big guns.

Francis is convinced Lee Bradbury’s new-look squad is equipped to mount a genuine promotion assault this season.

The 26-year-old has helped Cherries steadily climb the table, featuring in four wins and two draws since he signed on loan at the start of November.

Francis, whose move from Charlton was made permanent this month, has only tasted defeat once in seven league games for Cherries – against Sheffield United, another of his former clubs.

The Addicks are currently five points clear at the top with the Blades two points behind second-placed Sheffield Wednesday. MK Dons are fourth, two points ahead of Huddersfield.

Cherries, whose victory over Wycombe on Monday saw them go 10th, their highest standing of the season, are just five points shy of Stevenage, who occupy the final play-off berth.

Francis told the Daily Echo: “I would say the top five are pretty much nailed on to stay where they are. I am not saying they can’t be caught but it is going to be difficult. They are the biggest clubs in the division and they are there because they are also the best at the moment.

“Stevenage have had a great couple of seasons and are sixth. I think that place could be anyone’s and there is no reason why we can’t be in the mix. I think we are as good as, if not better than, any of the teams outside the top six and, when we have got a fully-fit squad, I think we can match anyone in the top six as well.

“There are no easy games but we have had quite a fortunate run recently. We aren’t looking over our shoulder any more, we are looking towards the top six, which is where we want to be.”

Francis, who deputised in central defence during Cherries’ 2-0 win over Wycombe, is expected to keep his place when Bradbury’s men put on the line their impressive four-month unbeaten away league record at Walsall.

Since losing 3-1 at Notts County at the start of September, Cherries have gone 10 games undefeated on the road and have edged closer to the club record of 13 matches.

Francis added: “We are looking to win every game and keep climbing the table. If we can break records on the way then great.”