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Chelsea forward Joao Pedro has come under intense scrutiny after his controversial celebration against former club Brighton & Hove Albion. The Brazilian was one of the standout performers in the Blues' dramatic 4-3 win at Stamford Bridge, but his actions in front of the travelling Brighton supporters sparked a major post-match debate.

Knockaert hits out at 'ungrateful' Pedro

The atmosphere at Stamford Bridge was already charged as Xabi Alonso's team aimed to continue their flawless start to the Premier League season, but after an action-packed, high-scoring contest, the focus shifted towards the conduct of one player.

Pedro, who swapped the South Coast for West London, was jeered by the visiting Brighton fans from the opening whistle. The situation escalated when the Brazilian, having earlier missed a big opportunity in the game, finally got on the scoresheet and chose to celebrate right in front of the furious away end.

Former Brighton winger Anthony Knockaert was one of the strongest critics of Pedro's behaviour. Posting his reaction online, the Frenchman made no attempt to hide his anger at what he viewed as a lack of gratitude and respect towards the player's former club.

Knockaert said: "Don't forget what Brighton did for you mate. Ungrateful."

Chelsea forward explains celebration

After the final whistle, Pedro moved quickly to play down the controversy, saying his reaction was simply an expression of joy at scoring and not a deliberate dig at Brighton. The forward said that the celebration is part of his usual routine, no matter which team he is facing or which supporters are in the crowd.

Speaking about the reaction after the match, Pedro told BBC Sport: "I just celebrate, it could be any fans, any team. I just want to do my celebration."

Aside from the personal controversy, the Brazilian also wanted to stress the wider progress Chelsea are making under Alonso's leadership. He added: "We started really well but then conceded goals. We should be more consistent and not give the opponents energy. Dibu [Emiliano Martinez] again showed his quality. Step by step, we will achieve our level."

Alonso maintains perfect start despite chaotic match

Pedro played a key role in the victory and now has two goals and two assists from his first two league matches of the season. His display also earned strong praise from former Premier League striker Darren Bent, who was analysing the match for Sky Sports.

Bent was especially taken by the quality of Chelsea's third goal, pointing to the roles played by Morgan Rogers and Jorrel Hato in the move. After watching the replay, Bent said: "Really good finish. Rogers was at the heart of it, he starts it, then it's Hato with a really good run."

Attacking depth gives Chelsea reason for optimism

The amount of attacking quality at Alonso's disposal has helped turn Chelsea into one of the most exciting teams to watch in the opening phase of the campaign. With players such as Pedro Neto also getting on the scoresheet, the Blues now have several different attacking routes that can trouble even the best-organised Premier League defences.

Pedro also recognised that strength in depth, saying the battle for places and the overall quality in the squad are pushing the side on. He said: "In front, we are very strong. The whole team, we have good players in every position."