'What a beauty!': Fans go mad as former Premier League defender Ritchie De Laet (who now plays as a striker) scores 'goal of the season' with 30 yard screamer for loan side Melbourne City FC Former Premier League defender Ritchie De Laet scored a screamer on Friday He's been playing in a more advanced role for loan team Melbourne City FC He already has seven goals this season, and fans have been going mad online By Matt Porter For Mailonline Published: 12:59 BST, 5 April 2019 | Updated: 12:59 BST, 5 April 2019 Viewcomments A serious contender for the A-League's goal of the season came from an unlikely source on Friday, as Ritchie De Laet scored an absolute rocket from 30 yards out. Premier League fans will recognise him as a defender, having played predominantly for Leicester City. However, he has been playing in a much more advanced role for Melbourne City FC, where he's on loan from Aston Villa. The Belgian has scored seven goals in 22 matches since arriving in Australia, and is making a name for himself as a surprisingly effective striker. Ritche De Laet celebrates with team-mates after scoring an incredible 30 yard strike on Friday Playing in a comfortable 4-1 win over Brisbane Roar, De Laet picked up the pass from midfield, took a few touches and then struck the ball hard into the top left corner from range. The goalkeeper barely moved to try and stop it as De Laet wheeled away in celebration with his team-mates. Fans have been going crazy on social media praising the strike. Ritchie De Laet took a couple of touches and struck the ball from range, hitting the top corner 'What a hit...' said one amazed viewer, while another lauded his 'absolute screamer.' 'So Richie de Laet has just top bins'd one from 30 out. As you do,' said one journalist, as another fan wrote: 'It's Ritchie de Laet's league and everyone else is just playing in it.' Melbourne City FC are currently fifth in the A-League, one point behind Wellington Phoenix and eight points behind local rivals Melbourne Victory. Share or comment on this article: All rights reserved for this news site dailymail and under his responsibility