Lionel Messi keeps smashing Major League Soccer records.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner marked his return from injury in the only way he knows how… scoring goals.

Messi broke yet more MLS records by scoring twice and adding an assistAFP

Messi netted twice in five minutes in his first match back for Inter Miami since suffering an ankle injury during the Copa America final in July.

Mikael Uhre had put Philadelphia Union ahead after two minutes.

But Messi levelled in the 26th minute after picking up a pass from Luis Suarez.

Four minutes later, Messi struck again as he beat goalkeeper Andrew Rick from 15 yards.

Suarez wrapped things up, with the Argentinian providing the assist, with the third goal eight minutes into stoppage time.

That was Messi’s 15th goal and 15th assist since joining Inter Miami, taking just 19 games to do so.

No one in MLS history has achieved this feat faster.

Sebastian Giovinco previously held the record, but took 29 games to do so.

Speaking to the media, Messi said: “As we said at the beginning, we know the squad we have, and [winning the Supporters’ Shield] is a goal. We are realistic and take responsibility.

“The truth is that throughout the year, we had a lot of bad luck with injuries. We were never at full strength – due to one thing or another, we were always missing players, but the team always pushed forward.

Messi now has 15 MLS goals and 15 assistsAFP

“Today, we are in first place with a big lead, and deservedly so. Hopefully, we can finish at the top for what it means and for what’s to come after as well.”

With Messi on the sidelines, Miami won eight of their 10 games and secured an MLS playoff spot.

They currently lead the MLS on 62 points and with six games to go can still smash the all-time record of 73.

Messi is the most decorated footballer in his with 45 trophies to his name, alongside many personal accolades.

He can extend that record this year to 47 should Inter Miami win the MLS Cup and Supporters’ Shield.