Mauricio Pochettino: 'Chelsea proved unity in win over Brighton & Hove Albion'

Head coach Mauricio Pochettino has admitted that he was delighted with Chelsea's show of character in the 3-2 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday afternoon.

Eight days on from succumbing 4-1 at Newcastle United, Chelsea quickly established a two-goal lead against the Seagulls in their following Premier League fixture.

However, moments after Brighton had halved the deficit before half time, Conor Gallagher was sent off for a second yellow card, leaving Chelsea to play more than 45 minutes with 10 men.

Rather than wilt while being at a disadvantage, Chelsea extended their lead as Enzo Fernandez netted from the penalty spot for his second of the contest.

Although Brighton ensured a nervy finish with a second goal in added-on time, their hosts held on to post just their second home win in this season's top flight.

Speaking after the match, Pochettino revealed that he challenged his players to take the opportunity to prove their unity at a time when they have faced criticism for their inconsistency.

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The Argentine told Sky Sports: "I told the players at half time that this is a massive opportunity and massive challenge to show that we are a real team.

"I think that is how we took the second half. We talked a little bit about how we needed to play in the second half, but the most important thing is to say 'with one less, we want to challenge a very good team like Brighton'.

"I think we compete really well, score another goal with one less, and then we win the game. Yes, so happy, we need to use this type of victory to build our confidence because that is massive for us. We are a young team that needs to build this confidence and then, of course, to try to play in the way that we want to play."

With West Ham United being held by Crystal Palace, Chelsea have now moved to within three points of eighth-placed Brighton in the Premier League table.

Pochettino's side are also five points adrift of Manchester United in seventh position, who they play at Old Trafford on Wednesday night.