I’ll always skipper Palace with pride, says Puncheon

Jason Puncheon has vowed to always represent Crystal Palace with pride and passion after being handed the captain’s armband by Sam Allardyce.

Palace are hovering above the Premier League relegation places and face a tough run in as they battle for survival.

Allardyce made Puncheon captain several weeks ago, a move that coincided with an upturn in form for the south Londoners.

The 30-year-old has scored 16 goals in 140 appearances since joining Palace in 2014, and, despite his pride, said he tries not to let the armband’s responsibility weigh his performances down.

Photo by Jordan Mansfield/Getty Images

“It was a proud moment for me to be told I was going to be captain of the club but I try not to let it affect me and just go out and play my normal game,” said Puncheon.

“The manager expects us all to reach certain standards and so we all have to do our bit when we are out on the pitch, there is no special treatment for anyone and looking at the squad I think that has really helped us all.

“I play for this football club with great pride and passion but I have always been vocal even before I was captain although the big thing for me is the team winning games.

“As the leader of the side for me it is important to show that I can play my part in making sure we get the results.”