Manchester City saw midfielder Bernardo Silva score in the Premier League for the first time since since July, 2020 as Pep Guardiola and company beat Aston Villa 2-0 in a rain-lashed game on Wednesday.

It was only 11 minutes to full-time that Silva – who started as false nine – converted Rodri’s header from goal line to take City 1-0. Ilkay Gundogan’s 90th minute penalty ensured the hosts made it nine successive wins in all competitions as they extended their unbeaten run to 16 matches.

Villa boss Dean Smith was sent to the stands after a furious complaint that Rodri should have been given offside in the build-up to Silva’s goal.

The situation on the table doesn’t ensure City a long stay at the top, as with a win later or Wednesday, Manchester United will regain the spot. However, on a positive side the 2018-19 champions seem to have got back on tracks after a spluttering start to the season. The defence has looked rock solid this season as they have conceded only once in the 11 matches John Stones and Ruben Dias have played together at centre-back.

The only worry for Guardiola was the sight of Kevin De Bruyne coming off in the second half with a possible injury after Kyle Walker limped off in the first half. With Sergio Aguero still in self-isolation and Gabriel Jesus on the bench, Phil Foden came into the front three in a move that left City without a recognised striker. With Foden in fine form, City kept up the pressure, but another mazy run from the youngster ended with Rodri’s goalbound shot hitting Raheem Sterling instead of the back of the net.

Owing to a coronavirus outbreak, Villa had only three days of training before facing City and put up a brave fight before fading at the end.