James Milner equalled the Premier League’s all-time appearance record after featuring in Brighton’s 1-0 defeat at Aston Villa on Wednesday night.

The 40-year-old reached his 653rd top-flight outing when he came on as a first-half substitute for Carlos Baleba at Villa Park. In doing so, Milner drew level with former Aston Villa and Manchester City midfielder Gareth Barry for the most appearances in Premier League history.

Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler paid tribute to the veteran midfielder’s remarkable longevity and professionalism.

“It is a special night for James. It’s no coincidence that he’s still proving he can play in the Premier League,” Hurzeler said.

“It’s a pleasure to work with him and have him in our squad as a player and role model.”

Milner’s milestone, however, was overshadowed by a late setback for Brighton. With the match seemingly heading for a draw, Jack Hinshelwood turned the ball into his own net in the 86th minute to hand Villa all three points.

Of Milner’s 653 Premier League appearances, 435 have come as a starter, with 218 off the bench. A title winner with both Manchester City and Liverpool, he has featured 15 times in the league this season, 13 of those as a substitute.

Milner’s top-flight journey began with Leeds United in 2002, launching a career that has spanned more than two decades. He now stands on the brink of making history outright and will break the record if he features in Brighton’s next league fixture against Brentford on February 21.