Fabian Hurzeler says Brighton must be on their guard when they face “special player” Joao Pedro tomorrow.

The Brazil international left the Amex for Chelsea in a £60million summer move, treading a well-worn path between the two clubs.

He faces them tomorrow for the first time having made an impressive start to life at his new club, scoring five times in nine games in all competitions and playing a key role as Chelsea claimed the Club World Cup in the summer.

Seagulls boss Hurzeler said: ”Joao was a special player for us and it’s not easy to replace him one-to-one but we did it as team and we did it quite well.

“There’s always a process, new players have to step in, new young players with big potential have to step in. They have to prove themselves every weekend that they are ready for that but they need time.

“Second thing, of course, Joao is a special player. He proved it already at Chelsea in the first [few] games. He played well. He scored goals. He is a game changer for them. We have to defend as a team, as a unit. I’m sure we are capable of doing that.”

Palmer set to miss Brighton clash

Pedro will likely start against his former club, but Brighton could be boosted by the absence of Cole Palmer.

The England international is still struggling with a groin injury that saw him substituted just 20 minutes into last Saturday’s defeat at Manchester United.

Chelsea are reportedly considering whether to hand Palmer an extended period of rest or send him for an operation.

Either way, it is extremely unlikely he will face Hurzeler’s side tomorrow.

The 32-year-old said: “First of all we can’t influence if he’s playing or not. It’s important to focus on our game and focus on how we want to play.

“If he’s starting, he’s a game changer for them. He is one of the best Premier League players. He’s got a special left foot. He can decide a game in one action.

“It’s about defending as a team, as a unit, but it’s not about only defending, it’s also about playing our style of play. If you go there trying only to defend you won’t have a chance.”

Brighton have won just one of their first five Premier League games this season.