The Argentina striker overtook Frenchman Thierry Henry as the EPL's leading overseas scorer after taking his tally to 177 goals in 255 matches during Manchester City's 6-1 mauling of Villa.

Aguero also now boasts the most hat-tricks in the competition's 18-year history, with his 12th treble seeing him move past Alan Shearer.

The prolific South American hitman, who joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2011, told Sky Sports after the match: "I'm so happy for the record.

"But I thank my team-mates because they helped me this year. I'm so happy."

Aguero came into Sunday's game at Villa Park sitting sixth in the EPL's all-time scoring charts.

He is now joint fourth after moving above former Arsenal star Henry and joining Frank Lampard on 177 strikes.

Only Shearer (260), Wayne Rooney (208) and Andy Cole (187) now lie above the 31-year-old, who is under contract at City until June 2021 and eager to add to his goal tally.

"I want to keep scoring more goals, but it all depends on my teammates. If they pass to me, then it's fine," Aguero added.

The 31-year-old, who was hailed a legend by many of his teammates, dedicated his feats to his son Benjamin.

"Very very happy about this victory, and it's truly moving to reach new milestones - standing alongside legends like @ThierryHenry, Frank Lampard and @alanshearer," Aguero wrote on Twitter.

"I'd like to thank all of those who've made this possible. My teammates, the whole @ManCity, our supporters, the @premierleague, my family and all of those who help me be better every day. And a special dedication to my son Benjamin."

Australian Associated Press