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

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Knockaert hits out at 'ungrateful' Pedro

The atmosphere at Stamford Bridge was already charged as Xabi Alonso's side aimed to continue their flawless start to the Premier League season, but after an eventful, high-scoring contest, attention turned to the conduct of one individual.

Pedro, who made the move from the South Coast to West London, was jeered by the visiting Brighton fans from the opening whistle. The situation escalated when the Brazilian, having earlier missed a major chance in the game, eventually scored and chose to celebrate right in front of the angry away end.

Former Brighton winger Anthony Knockaert was one of the strongest voices criticising the striker's behaviour. The Frenchman made clear his unhappiness with what he saw as a lack of respect towards Pedro's former club.

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

Chelsea star 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 his old club. The forward said that the celebration is just part of his usual routine, no matter which supporters are in the crowd.

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

Away from the personal controversy, the forward also wanted to stress the team's development under Alonso's new Chelsea setup. 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 the chaos

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

Bent was especially taken by the technical standard 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 strength boosts Chelsea belief

The depth 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 routes to goal and the firepower to trouble even the best-organised Premier League defences.

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