AFC Bournemouth captain Simon Francis has suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament.

The 33-year-old was stretchered off at the end of the first half of the Cherries’ Boxing Day defeat against Tottenham Hotspur at Wembley.

Francis was assessed by the club’s medical staff before undergoing a scan in London on Wednesday evening.

And the results have confirmed a rupture to the anterior cruciate ligament in the defender right knee, which is expected to keep him out for between six and nine months.

“We are devasted to have lost Simon to a serious knee injury,” said AFC Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe.

“It is a huge blow for us to lose our captain and someone who has performed so well and consistently for the team over a long period of time.

“There is a long road ahead but Simon is a model professional who has a positive mindset and is surrounded by good people. I know he will leave no stone unturned in order to get back as soon as possible.

“He will receive the best possible medical care as well as the love and support of everyone at the club.”