Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has praised the "desire" of Joao Pedro after the Brazilian forward proved the match-winner in a breathtaking seven-goal encounter against Brighton & Hove Albion at Stamford Bridge.

The Blues edged past their visitors 4-3 in a contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats from first whistle to last, with Joao Pedro's decisive contribution proving the difference between two evenly matched sides.

Alonso, speaking after the final whistle, reserved special praise for Joao Pedro, highlighting the attacker's hunger and determination as the qualities that helped Chelsea claim all three points in such a dramatic Premier League fixture.

The result keeps Chelsea firmly in the mix in a competitive Premier League season, while Brighton & Hove Albion will reflect on a performance that yielded three goals yet still left them empty-handed at Stamford Bridge.