Topics: Premier League, Manchester United, Aston Villa, Bruno Fernandes, Anthony Martial
The Portuguese playmaker landed a new feat with his goal in a landmark appearance on Friday night.

Bruno Fernandes joined an elite club list by scoring for Manchester United in Friday night's Premier League clash with Aston Villa. The 26-year-old Portuguese international grabbed the winner as the Red Devils secured a 2-1 home win, becoming the first player after Andy Cole to have the most goal contribution at the club in 30 league appearances.

What was an enthralling showdown between United and Dean Smith's Villa side had its first big moment coming in the 40th minute as Anthony Martial guided home a cross from the right-flank by Aaron Wan-Bissaka. 13 minutes after play resumed for the second half, a quick free-kick by the visitors resulted in Jack Grealish assisting Bertrand Traore for the game's equalizer.

Then came Bruno Fernandes' moment in the 61st minute after a penalty decision went the way of Manchester United as a result of Douglas Luis' foul on Paul Pogba. The former Sporting skipper stepped up to covert his 19th goal for the Old Trafford outfit in his 30th appearance. As such, and with 14 assists, he became the second player in the club's history to have the most goal involvement in their first 30 Premier League games, with Andy Cole (37) being the only player with a better record.

In a broader perspective, the win over Villa took Manchester United's point haul after 16 matches with 33, with Liverpool pipping their bitter rivals to the top spot with a better goal difference. The Red Devils still have a game in hand against Burnley and will travel to Anfield to face-off with the defending champions in their next league outing on January 17.