Chelsea thrashed Aston Villa 1-4 in a monumental game in the race for Champions League football. 

Cole Palmer got back on the scoresheet, but it was Joao Pedro who took the headlines after a scintillating hat-trick for the Blues.

This was a performance of a true number 9, amidst the talk about where Pedro’s best position is.

Once he signed for Chelsea in the Summer, there was some concern among fans as to where his actual best position is and why the sporting directors signed him. 

Well if his recent form is anything to go by, Joao Pedro’s best position is certainly leading the line for Chelsea. 

His first goal was much needed, although Chelsea were playing well in the game, they were still trailing.

That is until Malo Gusto finally found freedom amongst Villa’s high line, to set up Pedro for an open goal.

The equaliser might’ve been down to Villa’s intention to play high up, but Joao still needed to be in the right position to capitalise on the chance. 

The Brazilian’s second goal was just a perfect definition of his class.

Enzo Fernandez with a beautiful ball into Pedro once again, but this time saw probably the best finish of the lot. A delightful chip that saw Chelsea lead.

Then the hat-trick was probably the easiest goal that Joao will ever score.

Once again Villa’s high line played an important factor, as Alejandro Garnacho found himself in behind this time.

The Argentinian squared it to the Brazilian, and the hat-trick was completed. 

Joao Pedro is a player who has found himself amongst a mixture of opinions from Chelsea fans over the course of the season.

But he’s in fine form now, and it’s clear that if the Blues are to get Champions League football that they will need him to continue firing in goals, and keeping his top form consistent. 

Chelsea have Wrexham up next in the FA Cup, will Joao Pedro keep up his fine form? Or will Rosenior give him a rest and let Liam Delap shine?