Roy Hodgson has told Jason Puncheon he can't guarantee him more playing time but says his performance in Crystal Palace's Carabao Cup win improved his chances.

The 32-year-old wore the captain's armband in their 1-0 victory over Swansea City as it was his first game for the club since last December.

It was also his first appearance since he was fined and given community service in June for his part in a brawl outside a nightclub.

Alexander Sorloth scored the winner as the £9 million January signing from Danish club FC Midtyjlland got his first goal in English football at the Liberty Stadium.

"His [Puncheon] state of mind was fine," Hodgson said.

"He's a good professional and I've no problem with that at all. He wants to play more and I've told him I can't guarantee that because it's in midfield that we are at our most competitive. But this performance improved his chance of playing.

"If he insists he wants to be playing week-in week-out I can't guarantee that, but he's still a good player and was important in our victory.

"I'm very happy with the result because in football you have enough bad days. This was a good win against a more than a bona fide opponent because Swansea are a good side."

The former England boss also praised Sorloth following the win, who accepted a Jairo Riedewald pass before striking the ball home with a left-footed effort in the 70th minute.

It sees Palace progress into the third round of the Carabao Cup, while other London clubs Brentford, Fulham, and Queens Park Rangers also won their ties.

Hodgson added: "I thought Alexander was very good.

"He worked very hard, got his goal, and his physical statistics were off the charts. He has been making steady improvements in the time he has been with us.

"He got an injury but he works very hard at his game. We are pleased we have that option of a centre-forward of his type, someone like Christian Benteke."