Wilfried Zaha proves a quick learner for Crystal Palace

24 September 2015 12:16

Wilfried Zaha proved he has learned his lesson following his early substitution at Tottenham last weekend.

Zaha was hauled off at half-time during the 1-0 defeat by manager Alan Pardew, who afterwards claimed the winger did not show "the same desire to defend and attack".

But Zaha responded with an all-action performance to inspire Palace to a thumping 4-1 win over south London rivals Charlton in the Capital One Cup on Wednesday night.

Assistant boss Keith Millen said: "We were pleased with Wilf. He was a threat all night, he caused them problems, he created chances for us and worked hard out of possession.

"He's responded in the right manner. But it wasn't just about Wilf, it was a performance we wanted from the whole team."

Millen stressed Palace want to go on a run in the competition, saying that the draw had been kind to them so far.

But just as he finished speaking the Eagles were drawn away to Premier League leaders Manchester City.

" We've got to beat them some time," Millen said, with a smile.

Dwight Gayle took much of the attention from Zaha with a hat-trick to add to Fraizer Campbell's opener.

Gayle benefited from two penalties given away by Charlton defender Alou Diarra, the second of which saw the former France international sent off.

The striker completed his treble with a glancing header from Chung-Yong Lee's corner to put himself in the frame for a first Premier League start of the season at Watford on Sunday.

Naby Sarr headed one back for Charlton, who are riddled by injuries and have made an unconvincing start to the Championship season.

"We need to move on from this, focus on the league and increase our levels of performance to bring a result against Cardiff on Saturday," said Charlton boss Guy Luzon.

"It is a very important game for us and we will do everything to come back with the points."

Source: PA