Bournemouth defender Simon Francis believes Gonzalo Higuain will have a big impact for Chelsea.

Francis marked the Argentine when Real Madrid took on the Cherries in a preseason friendly six years ago.

The pair will face off again on Wednesday night and Francis had plenty of kind words for the 31-year-old, who last week signed with Chelsea on loan from Juventus.

"He came on in the second half and immediately we noticed his movement more than anything," Francis told Standard Sport.

"If the midfielders were getting the ball, Ozil and [Angel] Di Maria, as soon as they got on the half-turn he was in behind or coming short and I think those are the signs of a top striker.

"He has always possessed that, had his ups and downs obviously playing in Italy but the form he showed at Napoli, playing under Sarri, his movement was excellent and the goals he was scoring.

"I'm sure if he is fit for Wednesday the lads will be looking at that and if Sarri can get him firing he is going to be a massive player for them until the end of the season. Hopefully he's just a little cold next week and we keep him quiet."