Chelsea youngster Levi Colwill explains ‘meme-worthy’ celebration against Brighton which saw him tone down ecstatic reaction against former club

The youngster scored his first-ever senior goal for the Blues as he doubled his team's lead with a fine header against his former club Brighton on Sunday. Colwill's goal proved crucial as Chelsea edged out the Seagulls 3-2 to clinch three vital points in the Premier League.

Right after scoring his maiden goal, the 20-year-old initially could not control his emotions as he started celebrating ecstatically, before quickly composing himself out of respect for Brighton - where he played on loan in 2022-23.

Speaking to reporters after the match, the English defender explained his celebration, which has been dubbed 'meme-worthy' by fans on social media. "This moment means everything to me after growing up through the club and academy," he said. "It was a lot of emotions after I headed it in. But I wasn’t sure if the referee would give it, and he gave it. I ran off to celebrate my first Premier League goal but then realised it was against my old team, so I needed to show them some respect, which I did.

"Brighton, the fans and the manager did a lot for me, and I wouldn’t be here without them and chose not to over-celebrate, it was the least I could do. I am hoping to get many more for Chelsea. I have so much more I need to prove. Hopefully, I can prove how good I can be."

Colwill has been a part of Chelsea's set-up since he was eight years old, and thus it was natural for him to be jubilant after scoring his first-ever top-flight goal for his boyhood club.

Brighton, on the other hand, is the club that helped him first get recognition as a senior Premier League player. He was impressive in the 17 Premier League matches he played for the Seagulls last season, which prompted new Blues boss Mauricio Pochettino to retain his services after his return to his parent club.

After a much-needed win during the weekend, Pochettino's side will hope to build momentum when they take on Manchester United in a crucial Premier League clash on Wednesday. Chelsea will be back in action four days later away at Everton.