2009–10 Arsenal F.C. season

English football club season May 2013 June 2020 Arsenal F.C. 2009–10 Arsenal vs Everton prematch handshake 2010.jpg 320px Arsenal and Everton players shake hands before their Premier League game at the Emirates Arsène Wenger Peter Hill-Wood Emirates Stadium Premier League 3rd FA Cup Fourth round League Cup Fifth round UEFA Champions League Quarter-finals Cesc Fàbregas (15) Cesc Fàbregas (19) 60,103 (vs. Tottenham Hotspur, 31 October 2009) 56,592 (vs. West Bromwich Albion, 22 September 2009) 59,920Arsenal first team line up (2009–10) http://thearsenalhistory.com/stat/aftlu_files/sheet125.htm The Arsenal History 20 April 2019 6 February 2024 https://web.archive.org/web/20240206020117/http://thearsenalhistory.com/stat/aftlu_files/sheet125.htm dead Note: Information is in the section 2009–10. Attendances of friendlies not taken into account in average. _arsenalhome0810 _arsenalhome0810 _arsenalhome0810 _whitereddown _arsenalhome FF0000 FF0000 FF0000 FFFFFF FFFFFF _arsenalaway0910 _arsenalaway0910 _arsenalaway0910 _arsenalaway0910 _arsenalaway0910 003973 003973 003973 003973 003973 _arsenalthird0910 _arsenalthird0910 _arsenalthird0910 _arsenalthird0910 _arsenalthird0910 8C8C8C FFFFFF 8C8C8C 403C42 FFFFFF 2008–09 2010–11 The 2009–10 season was Arsenal Football Club's 18th season in the Premier League and their 84th consecutive season in the top flight of English football.https://www.arsenal.com/news/features/48523/behind-the-numbers- All-time Arsenal James Josh 18 June 2013 Arsenal F.C. 22 June 2023 live https://web.archive.org/web/20230622042610/https://www.arsenal.com/news/features/48523/behind-the-numbers- 22 June 2023https://www.rsssf.org/tablese/engall.html English Clubs Divisional Movements 1888–2016 Ross James Heneghan Michael Orford Stuart Culliton Eoin 25 August 2016 Rec.Sport.Soccer Statistics Foundation 22 June 2023 live https://web.archive.org/web/20230622041929/https://www.rsssf.org/tablese/engall.html 22 June 2023 It began on 1 July 2009 and concluded on 30 June 2010, with competitive matches played between August and May. The club ended the Premier League campaign in third position, 11 points behind champions Chelsea. In the domestic cup competitions, Arsenal were knocked out in the fourth round of the FA Cup to Stoke City and the fifth round of the League Cup against Manchester City. They failed to progress past the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League, losing to reigning champions Barcelona in a two-legged tie. Arsenal did little business in the transfer market; their only outfield signing of the summer was defender Thomas Vermaelen from Ajax. Several players however left the club before the campaign got under way, including Emmanuel Adebayor and Kolo Touré in separate deals to Manchester City. To reinvigorate the side and benefit from Cesc Fàbregas's creativity, manager Arsène Wenger instituted a fluid 4–3–3 formation. The team made an impressive start; by November they had scored 36 goals in 11 league games and qualified for the Champions League knockout stage with a game to spare. Arsenal's defensive fragility was a recurring theme throughout the season and meant the team struggled to sustain a title challenge; they suffered back-to-back Premier League losses on four occasions. 41 different players represented Arsenal in four competitions and there were 14 different goalscorers. Arsenal's top goalscorer was Fàbregas, who scored 19 goals in 36 appearances. 3 Background 2008–09 Arsenal F.C. season Transfers Arsenal made one outfield signing during the summer, defender Thomas Vermaelen from Ajax in a deal estimated at £10 million.John Ley Arsene Wenger releases eight Arsenal players https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/5698642/Arsene-Wenger-releases-eight-Arsenal-players.html The Daily Telegraph London 30 June 2009 20 April 2019 Several players were let go, including Amaury Bischoff who joined in 2008 and played the majority of his football in the reserves and Rui Fonte. Striker Emmanuel Adebayor was sold to Manchester City for a fee of £25 million and Kolo Touré soon joined him, ending a seven-year association with Arsenal. His former teammate Sol Campbell rejoined the club during the winter transfer window, having been a free agent.Sol Campbell completes shock return to Arsenal http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/8455133.stm BBC Sport 15 January 2010 20 April 2019 Wenger, who signed him to bolster the squad's defensive options, said: "He has a fantastic attitude and good fitness. Of course he is not the youngest but he is in a very good shape. He can still play in the Premier League. He is important in the dressing room as well. He's positive with the young players." A number of players were loaned out during the season for game time and career development. Goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny joined Brentford in November 2009 and stayed their for the remainder of the season, while in the January window Jack Wilshere and Philippe Senderos moved to Bolton Wanderers and Everton respectively. In No.PositionPlayerTransferred fromFeeDateRef5DFThomas VermaelenAjax£10,000,00019 June 2009http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/thomas-vermaelen-completes-move-to-arsenal Thomas Vermaelen completes move to Arsenal 17 June 2010 15 June 2019 Arsenal F.C. https://web.archive.org/web/20090707091837/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/thomas-vermaelen-completes-move-to-arsenal 7 July 2009 dead dmy-allMFSamuel GalindoReal AméricaFree transfer15 January 2010http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/-we-ve-loan-agreements-with-spanish-clubs- Wenger – New boy Galindo will go on loan 17 June 2010 20 December 2012 Arsenal F.C. https://web.archive.org/web/20121120205640/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/-we-ve-loan-agreements-with-spanish-clubs- 20 November 2012 dead dmy-all31DFSol CampbellFree agentFree transfer16 January 2010http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/sol-campbell-rejoins-arsenal Sol Campbell rejoins Arsenal 17 April 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20100119152842/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/sol-campbell-rejoins-arsenal 19 January 2010 dead dmy-all Out No.PositionPlayerTransferred toFeeDateRef28MFAmaury BischoffAcadémica de CoimbraFree transfer (Released)30 June 2009http://www.arsenal.com/news/reserves-news/four-youngsters-turn-pro-while-eight-depart 30 June 2009 20 December 2012 Arsenal F.C. Four youngsters turn pro while nine depart 39FWRui FonteSporting CPFree transfer (Released)30 June 200949DFPaul RodgersNorthampton TownFree transfer (Released)30 June 200925FWEmmanuel AdebayorManchester City£25,000,00020 July 2009http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/adebayor-completes-move-to-manchester-city Adebayor completes move to Manchester City 20 July 2009 20 December 2012 Arsenal F.C. https://web.archive.org/web/20120829134838/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/adebayor-completes-move-to-manchester-city 29 August 2012 dead 5DFKolo TouréManchester City£16,000,00029 July 2009http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/man_city/8172622.stm Toure completes Man City switch 29 July 2009 17 April 2019 BBC Sport Loan out No.PositionPlayerLoaned fromDateLoan expires RefDFPedro BotelhoCelta Vigo23 July 2009End of the seasonhttp://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11670_5449558,00.html Celta land Gunners defender 23 July 2009 20 December 2012 Sky Sports DFHåvard Nordtveit1. FC Nürnberg7 August 2009End of the seasonhttp://www.arsenal.com/news/reserves-news/nordtveit-joins-fc-nurnberg-on-loan Nordtveit joins FC Nurnberg on loan 7 August 2009 20 December 2012 Arsenal F.C. 38MFJay Emmanuel-ThomasBlackpool17 August 200917 November 2009http://www.arsenal.com/news/reserves-news/emmanuel-thomas-joins-blackpool-on-loan Emmanuel-Thomas joins Blackpool on loan 17 August 2009 20 December 2012 Arsenal F.C. https://web.archive.org/web/20120905092619/http://www.arsenal.com/news/reserves-news/emmanuel-thomas-joins-blackpool-on-loan 5 September 2012 dead 45MFHenri LansburyWatford21 August 2009End of the seasonhttp://www.arsenal.com/news/reserves-news/henri-lansbury-joins-watford-on-loan Henri Lansbury joins Watford on loan 21 August 2009 20 December 2012 Arsenal F.C. https://web.archive.org/web/20090826092730/http://www.arsenal.com/news/reserves-news/henri-lansbury-joins-watford-on-loan 26 August 2009 dead50FWJay SimpsonQueens Park Rangers27 August 2009End of the seasonhttp://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/simpson-joins-qpr-on-season-long-loan-deal Simpson joins QPR on season-long loan deal 27 August 2009 20 December 2012 Arsenal F.C. https://web.archive.org/web/20160809140821/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/simpson-joins-qpr-on-season-long-loan-deal 9 August 2016 dead44DFGavin HoyteBrighton & Hove Albion9 October 2009End of the seasonhttp://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/gavin-hoyte-joins-brighton-on-loan Hoyte joins Brighton and Hove Albion on loan 9 October 2009 20 December 2012 Arsenal F.C. https://web.archive.org/web/20091216024906/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/gavin-hoyte-joins-brighton-on-loan 16 December 2009 dead 53GKWojciech SzczęsnyBrentford20 November 2009End of the seasonhttp://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/wojciech-szczesny Wojciech Szczesny joins Brentford on loan 20 November 2009 20 December 2012 Arsenal F.C. https://web.archive.org/web/20141018165829/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/wojciech-szczesny 18 October 2014 dead 47FWRhys MurphyBrentford24 November 200924 February 2010http://www.arsenal.com/news/reserves-news/rhys-murphy-joins-brentford-on-loan Rhys Murphy joins Brentford on loan 24 November 2009 20 December 2012 Arsenal F.C. https://web.archive.org/web/20120915001905/http://www.arsenal.com/news/reserves-news/rhys-murphy-joins-brentford-on-loan 15 September 2012 dead48MFMark RandallMilton Keynes Dons15 January 2010End of the seasonhttp://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/mark-randall-joins-milton-keynes-dons-on-loan Mark Randall joins Milton Keynes Dons on loan 15 January 2010 20 December 2012 Arsenal F.C. https://web.archive.org/web/20120918053451/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/mark-randall-joins-milton-keynes-dons-on-loan 18 September 2012 dead42DFKerrea GilbertPeterborough United15 January 2010End of the seasonhttp://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/gilbert-joins-peterborough-united-on-loan Gilbert joins Peterborough United on loan 15 January 2010 20 December 2012 Arsenal F.C. https://web.archive.org/web/20120918053552/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/gilbert-joins-peterborough-united-on-loan 18 September 2012 dead 6DFPhilippe SenderosEverton25 January 2010End of the seasonhttp://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/philippe-senderos-joins-everton-on-loan Philippe Senderos joins Everton on loan 25 January 2010 20 December 2012 Arsenal F.C. https://web.archive.org/web/20120919174019/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/philippe-senderos-joins-everton-on-loan 19 September 2012 dead19MFJack WilshereBolton Wanderers29 January 2010End of the seasonhttp://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/jack-wilshere-joins-bolton-wanderers-on-loan Jack Wilshere joins Bolton Wanderers on loan 25 January 2010 20 December 2012 Arsenal F.C. https://web.archive.org/web/20120921012411/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/jack-wilshere-joins-bolton-wanderers-on-loan 21 September 2012 dead54MFSanchez WattSouthend United1 February 201028 February 2010http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/sanchez-watt-joins-southend-united-on-loan Sanchez Watt joins Southend United on loan 1 February 2010 20 December 2012 Arsenal F.C. 34DFKyle BartleySheffield United9 February 201012 May 2010http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/kyle-bartley-joins-sheffield-united-on-loan Kyle Bartley joins Sheffield United on loan 9 February 2010 20 December 2012 Arsenal F.C. https://web.archive.org/web/20120921012904/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/kyle-bartley-joins-sheffield-united-on-loan 21 September 2012 dead 51FWGilles SunuDerby County19 February 2010End of the seasonhttp://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/gilles-sunu-joins-derby-county-on-loan Gilles Sunu joins Derby County on loan 19 February 2010 20 December 2012 Arsenal F.C. https://web.archive.org/web/20100223024234/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/gilles-sunu-joins-derby-county-on-loan 23 February 2010 dead38MFJay Emmanuel-ThomasDoncaster Rovers27 February 2010End of the seasonhttp://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/jay-emmanuel-thomas-joins-doncaster-on-loan Jay Emmanuel-Thomas joins Doncaster on loan 27 February 2010 20 December 2012 Arsenal F.C. https://web.archive.org/web/20100302195851/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/jay-emmanuel-thomas-joins-doncaster-on-loan 2 March 2010 dead 46DFLuke AylingYeovil Town17 March 2010End of the seasonhttp://www.arsenal.com/news/reserves-news/luke-ayling-joins-yeovil-town-on-loan Luke Ayling joins Yeovil Town on loan 17 March 2010 20 December 2012 Arsenal F.C. https://web.archive.org/web/20120923121641/http://www.arsenal.com/news/reserves-news/luke-ayling-joins-yeovil-town-on-loan 23 September 2012 dead 54MFSanchez WattLeeds United25 March 2010End of the seasonhttp://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/sanchez-watt-joins-leeds-united-on-loan Sanchez Watt joins Leeds United on loan 25 March 2010 20 December 2012 Arsenal F.C. https://web.archive.org/web/20120922072235/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/sanchez-watt-joins-leeds-united-on-loan 22 September 2012 dead Pre-season 18 July 2009 15:00 BST Barnet 2–2 Report Arsenal Yakubu 45Charles 83 43 Arshavin51 Barazite Barnet Underhill Stadium 5,099 D 21 July 2009 18:30 CEST SC Columbia AUT 1–7 Report ENG Arsenal Lehner 35 36 44 Bendtner39 83 Ramsey56 pen. 73 Van Persie77 Gallas Columbiaplatz Schwarzlackenau Stadium 6,900 W 27 July 2009 19:00 CEST Szombathelyi Haladás HUN 0–5 Report ENG Arsenal 17 43 Bendtner24 40 Eduardo66 pen. Van Persie Szombathely Rohonci Street Stadium 12,500 W 29 July 2009 19:00 CEST Hannover 96 GER 0–1 https://www.arsenal.com/match/report/0809/post/first-team/hannover-96-0-1-arsenal-match-report Report] ENG Arsenal Balitsch Haggui 8 Fàbregas Bendtner Van Persie Sagna Hanover AWD-Arena 31,412 W Emirates Cup 1 August 2009 16:15 BST Arsenal ENG 2–1 Report ESP Atlético Madrid Arshavin 86 90 29 Juanito44 Ujfaluši88 Pacheco London Emirates Stadium 54,224 Mark Clattenburg W Emirates Cup 2 August 2009 16:15 BST Arsenal ENG 3–0 Report SCO Rangers Wilshere 2 72Eduardo 11 50 McCulloch London Emirates Stadium 56,758 Mike Dean W 8 August 2009 21:30 CEST Valencia ESP 2–0 Report ENG Arsenal Míchel 75Villa 90 Valencia Mestalla Stadium 55,000 L Premier League 2009–10 Premier League A total of 20 teams competed in the Premier League in the 2009–10 season. Each team played 38 matches; two against every other team and one match at each club's stadium. Three points were awarded for each win, one point per draw, and none for defeats. At the end of the season the top three teams qualified for the group stages of the UEFA Champions League; the team in fourth needed to play a qualifier.http://www.premierleague.com/content/dam/premierleague/site-content/News/publications/handbooks/premier-league-handbook-2009-10.pdf Premier League Handbook – Season 2009/10 Premier League 3 October 2009 24 December 2013 24 September 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150924092519/http://www.premierleague.com/content/dam/premierleague/site-content/News/publications/handbooks/premier-league-handbook-2009-10.pdf dead The provisional fixture list was released on 17 June 2009, but was subject to change in the event of clashes with other competitions, inclement weather, or matches being selected for television coverage.Draft 09/10 Barclays Premier League fixtures http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/draft-2009/10-premier-league-fixture-list Arsenal F.C. 17 June 2009 24 December 2013 https://web.archive.org/web/20131224103917/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/draft-2009/10-premier-league-fixture-list 24 December 2013 dead August–October thumb|right|210px|Emmanuel Adebayor scored against Arsenal and reacted by celebrating in front of the visiting supporters. The league campaign began for Arsenal with a trip to Goodison Park to face Everton on 15 August 2009. Denílson scored the opening goal four minutes before the half-hour and Vermaelen doubled Arsenal's lead, heading the ball in from a Robin van Persie cross.Joe Lovejoy Cesc Fábregas takes two to seal Arsenal rout at sorry Everton https://www.theguardian.com/football/2009/aug/15/premier-league-everton-arsenal The Observer London 15 August 2009 17 April 2019 Everton's failure to mark Gallas brought about the visitors' third just before the break. Fàbregas scored two goals in the second half and substitute Eduardo added Arsenal's sixth, before Saha scored for Everton in stoppage time. The game marked Vermaelen's league debut and the player was described by The Guardians match correspondent Andy Hunter as "comfortably the finest defender on display", having limited his counterpart Marouane Fellaini to so few chances while "anticipating danger expertly".Andy Hunter Unsettled Joleon Lescott strikes at the heart of Everton's unity https://www.theguardian.com/football/2009/aug/16/everton-arsenal-match-report The Guardian London 16 August 2009 17 April 2019 The following week Abou Diaby scored two goals as Arsenal beat Portsmouth 4–1.Arsenal 4–1 Portsmouth David Ornstein http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8209326.stm BBC Sport 22 August 2009 15 January 2014 Arsenal then travelled to play the incumbent champions Manchester United at Old Trafford. Arshavin's goal in the 40th minute gave Arsenal the lead, but Manuel Almunia conceded a penalty in the second half, as he adjusted to have fouled striker Wayne Rooney in the penalty box.Duncan White Manchester United 2 Arsenal 1: match report https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/manchester-united/6106158/Manchester-United-2-Arsenal-1-match-report.html The Sunday Telegraph London 30 August 2009 15 June 2019 Rooney converted the spot kick to level the scoreline, before Diaby headed the ball into his own net from a United free-kick. Late on, Wenger was sent to the stands for kicking a water bottle after Van Persie's equaliser was correctly disallowed. He felt the defeat was an "undeserved" one, going further to criticise his opponents' tactics: "I have seen a player make 20 fouls without getting a yellow card. If you have seen the game, you don't need me to tell you who but their player gets away without a yellow card. It's quite amazing."Wenger fury at 'repeated fouls' http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8229064.stm BBC Sport 31 August 2009 24 December 2013 Arsenal did not play another game for a fortnight because of the international football break. On the resumption of club football, they faced Manchester City. At the City of Manchester Stadium, Arsenal lost for the second league match in succession, this time by a two-goal margin.Mark Ogden Manchester City 4 Arsenal 2: match report https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/6174074/Manchester-City-4-Arsenal-2-match-report.html The Daily Telegraph London 12 September 2009 17 April 2019 Adebayor scored against his former club and caused controversy by running towards the Arsenal section and celebrating in front of them.Emily Benammar Emmanuel Adebayor insists Arsenal fans' abuse justifies his goal celebration https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/manchester-city/6204477/Emmanuel-Adebayor-insists-Arsenal-fans-abuse-justifies-his-goal-celebration.html The Daily Telegraph London 18 September 2009 17 April 2019 Television replays also caught the striker attempting to stamp Van Persie's face.Jeremy Wilson Arsenal captain Cesc Fàbregas accuses Emmanuel Adebayor over stamping https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/6202874/Arsenal-captain-Cesc-Fabregas-accuses-Emmanuel-Adebayor-over-stamp-on-him.html The Daily Telegraph London 18 September 2009 17 April 2019 At home, Arsenal responded with a 4–0 win against Wigan Athletic and a single Van Persie's goal was enough to beat Fulham away in the team's final match of September.David Lacey Arsenal's failings persist as Emirates says sorry to Emmanuel Eboué https://www.theguardian.com/football/2009/sep/21/arsenal-wigan-athletic-emmanuel-eboue The Guardian London 21 September 2009 17 April 2019Alyson Rudd Vito Mannone's heroics earn victory for Arsenal https://www.thetimes.com/sport/football/article/vito-mannones-heroics-earn-victory-for-arsenal-26bfbhdcrvk The Times 28 September 2009 17 April 2019 Vito Mannone's performance at Craven Cottage was praised; he stood in for the injured Almunia. After six games, Arsenal garnered 12 points and stood in fifth position, having played a game less than each of the teams occupying the top four.Jonathan Stevenson Fulham 0–1 Arsenal http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8270588.stm BBC Sport 26 September 2009 17 April 2019 The visit of Blackburn Rovers to the Emirates Stadium in early October coincided with the start of Wenger's 13th year at the club.Ian Hughes Arsenal 6–2 Blackburn http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8280477.stm BBC Sport 4 October 2009 15 June 2019 Six different players (Vermaelen, Van Persie, Arshavin, Fàbregas, Theo Walcott and Nicklas Bendtner) scored in the team's 6–2 win. Arsenal defeated Birmingham City 3–1 at home before conceding twice away to West Ham United on 25 October 2009 to draw.Russell Kempson Alessandro Diamanti makes Arsenal pay penalty https://www.thetimes.com/sport/football/article/alessandro-diamanti-makes-arsenal-pay-penalty-l6gvncddzxk The Times 25 October 2009 15 June 2019 Arsenal's final game of October was a North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur. Van Persie scored the opening goal in the 42nd minute, before Fàbregas added a second immediately – he won the ball straight from the kick-off and went past Tottenham's static defence, before shooting past Heurelho Gomes.Phil McNulty Arsenal 3–0 Tottenham http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8330353.stm BBC Sport 31 October 2009 17 April 2019 Van Persie scored Arsenal's third in the second half and the 3–0 win moved Arsenal into third position, five points behind Chelsea in first who played a game more. November–January thumb|left|180px|Aaron Ramsey made his breakthrough into the first eleven for Arsenal during the 2009–10 season. Arsenal's first fixture of November was against Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Molineux Stadium. The team moved into second place as a result of a 4–1 win.Ian Hughes Wolverhampton 1–4 Arsenal http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8344200.stm BBC Sport 7 November 2009 17 April 2019 Wenger was sceptical of whether his team could reach a century of goals in the league, but was overjoyed at Arsenal's goal tally of 36 in 11 league matches: "[It] shows that the way we play football, the way we are organised and the way we go forward suits our players."Stuart James Arsenal's four-goal haul against Wolves leaves Wenger eyeing record https://www.theguardian.com/football/2009/nov/09/wolverhampton-wanderers-arsenal-premier-league The Guardian London 9 November 2009 16 September 2017 Following the international football break, Arsenal played Sunderland at the Stadium of Light. Eduardo deputised for Van Persie, who injured himself whilst playing for the Netherlands. Darren Bent's goal in the 71st minute won the match for Sunderland, who became the first team to prevent Arsenal from scoring in a league match.Ian Hughes Sunderland 1–0 Arsenal http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8364367.stm BBC Sport 21 November 2009 13 April 2019 Manchester United's defeat of Everton moved Arsenal down into third position in the league table, three points ahead. At home to league leaders Chelsea on 29 November 2009, Arsenal lost 3–0; striker Didier Drogba scored two goals in either interval of the game. When asked if Arsenal's title chances were over, Wenger replied, "It is not over and I believe, on what I have seen of Chelsea, that the team can drop points."Mikey Stafford Carlo Ancelotti dismisses Arsène Wenger's gloomy Chelsea prediction https://www.theguardian.com/football/2009/dec/31/carlo-ancelotti-arsene-wenger-spat The Guardian London 4 January 2010 27 September 2017 December saw Arsenal win five out of six league matches. Arshavin and Aaron Ramsey each scored against Stoke City at home, and the team came from behind to beat Liverpool at Anfield – a ground where they were winless in five years.Arsenal inflict more misery on Liverpool https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/arsenal-inflict-more-misery-liverpool FourFourTwo 13 December 2009 18 April 2019 The victory was attributed to Wenger's half-time team talk where he uncharacteristically shouted at his players and told them they were "not fit to wear the shirt" after a poor first-half performance.Arsène Wenger admits team-talk at Liverpool could have backfired https://www.theguardian.com/football/2009/dec/16/arsene-wenger-team-talk-liverpool-arsenal The Guardian London 16 December 2009 26 September 2017 "Of course it can always go the other way and you can lose 6–1. Then it's a crisis; it is like that." he told reporters. Arsenal were then held to a 1–1 draw at Burnley which meant they remained in third spot, with the gap between themselves and Chelsea ever increasing.James Ducker Arsenal draw adds insult to injury for Cesc Fabregas https://www.thetimes.com/article/arsenal-draw-adds-insult-to-injury-for-cesc-fabregas-whthgndwp2m The Times 17 December 2009 18 April 2019 The team returned to winning ways at home to Hull City as Denílson, Eduardo and Diaby got on the scoresheet in a 3–0 victory.Mikey Stafford Not even three points can help Arsenal through their pain barrier https://www.theguardian.com/football/2009/dec/21/premier-league-arsenal-hull-city The Guardian London 21 December 2009 14 June 2019 A day after Boxing Day, Arsenal beat Aston Villa by the same scoreline; Fàbregas came off the substitutes' bench and scored twice.Mandeep Sanghera Arsenal 3–0 Aston Villa http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8423583.stm BBC Sport 27 December 2009 27 September 2017 The Arsenal captain however injured himself in the closing stages of the match and was ruled out for their next game, away to Portsmouth. Nevertheless, the team recorded a 4–1 victory to move four points behind leaders Chelsea with a game in hand.Matt Hughes Impressive Arsenal add to Portsmouth misery with effortless victory https://www.thetimes.com/sport/football/article/impressive-arsenal-add-to-portsmouth-misery-with-effortless-victory-g8wmstklkk2 The Times 31 December 2009 26 April 2019 Tomáš Rosický scored in stoppage time to deny Everton their first win at Arsenal in 14 years. The match, which saw the visitors lead twice, was played in cold conditions as a result of the "Big Freeze". Arsenal then faced Bolton Wanderers back-to-back; the home fixture was originally called off on 6 January 2010 due to heavy snow.Arsenal P–P Bolton http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8440005.stm BBC Sport 6 January 2010 13 April 2019 At the Reebok Stadium, goals from Fàbregas and Fran Mérida saw the visitors to victory in what was Owen Coyle's first game in charge of Bolton.Paul Fletcher Bolton 0–2 Arsenal http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8454216.stm BBC Sport 17 January 2010 13 April 2019 In the reverse fixture three days later Arsenal won again to go back in first spot, this time coming back from two goals down to win 4–2.Dominic Fifield Andrey Arshavin takes Arsenal top after fightback against Bolton https://www.theguardian.com/football/2010/jan/20/arsenal-bolton-premier-league-report The Guardian London 20 January 2010 26 September 2017 Their stay at the top of the table was brief and moved back down to third, after they were held to a goalless stalemate against Aston Villa in the midweek round, while Chelsea beat Birmingham.David Ornstein Aston Villa 0–0 Arsenal http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8473143.stm BBC Sport 27 January 2010 13 April 2019 Arsenal's best chances in the match came in the first half; Fàbregas and Rosicky both had efforts hit the post and crossbar respectively. The end of January brought the visit of Manchester United to the Emirates Stadium. Wenger described the game as an opportunity for Arsenal to prove they were "mentally prepared" to compete in the title race, but his team were outclassed by the visitors which prompted boos from the home support at the final whistle.Dominic Fifield Arsène Wenger goes public with criticism of Arsenal's frailties https://www.theguardian.com/football/2010/jan/31/arsenal-arsene-wenger-manchester-united The Guardian London 31 January 2010 14 April 2019 Nani opened the scoring just after the half-hour mark and was involved in the counter-attack that led to the second goal four minutes later, finished off by Rooney.Phil McNulty Arsenal 1–3 Man Utd http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8473143.stm BBC Sport 31 January 2010 13 April 2019 Park Ji-sung added a third for United in the second half, before Vermaelen scored late on to make the scoreline 3–1. The defeat left Arsenal still in third with 14 games remaining, five points behind leaders Chelsea. February–May Arsenal's poor form against the title challengers continued: at Stamford Bridge they were unable to get the better of a Chelsea side that powered into a 2–0 lead in the first half-hour.Kevin McCarra Chelsea's Didier Drogba devastates brittle Arsenal at the Bridge https://www.theguardian.com/football/2010/feb/07/chelsea-arsenal-premier-league The Guardian London 7 February 2010 11 May 2019 Drogba opened the scoring in the eighth minute when John Terry headed the ball across the face of goal and he tapped in at the far post. The striker scored his second of the game from a counter-attack. In his match report for The Guardian, Kevin McCarra opined that Arsenal were "strangled by stereotype" and a second successive defeat put end to their title bid. Wenger downplayed the defeat, and told reporters "we didn't get a demonstration of football but they were efficient;" his comments on possession irked Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack.Jim Van Wijk Wenger refuses to give up Arsenal title hopes https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/wenger-refuses-to-give-up-arsenal-title-hopes-1892752.html https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220501/https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/wenger-refuses-to-give-up-arsenal-title-hopes-1892752.html 1 May 2022 subscription live The Independent London 8 February 2010 11 May 2019Arsene Wenger blames media for Michael Ballack row http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/chelsea/8505270.stm BBC Sport 9 February 2010 11 May 2019 Arsenal returned to winning ways in midweek with a narrow victory against Liverpool and then scored twice to beat Sunderland.Henry Winter Arsenal 1 Liverpool 0: match report https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/7206628/Arsenal-1-Liverpool-0-match-report.html The Daily Telegraph London 11 February 2010 12 May 2019Jeremy Wilson Arsenal 2 Sunderland 0: match report https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/7279442/Arsenal-2-Sunderland-0-match-report.html The Daily Telegraph London 20 February 2010 12 May 2019 At the Britannia Stadium, Arsenal forged a comeback against Stoke City but their win was overshadowed by the injury to Ramsey.John Aizlewood Aaron Ramsey horror injury overshadows Arsenal victory https://www.thetimes.com/sport/football/article/aaron-ramsey-horror-injury-overshadows-arsenal-victory-gvz5b5lk0fl The Sunday Times 28 February 2010 11 May 2019 The midfielder broke his right leg following a challenge by Stoke defender Ryan Shawcross, who was immediately sent off. Wenger described the tackle as "horrendous" and added "People say we don't fancy the physical side of it, but this is the result. If you see a player getting injured like that, it's not acceptable." A win against Burnley in March put Arsenal level on points with second-place Chelsea having played a game more.Ian Hughes Arsenal 3–1 Burnley http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8546288.stm BBC Sport 6 March 2010 13 April 2019 The team needed a late goal against Hull City, courtesy of Bendtner in the third minute of stoppage time to get three points and move above Manchester United into second place.Phil Dawkes Hull 1–2 Arsenal http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8558061.stm BBC Sport 13 March 2010 15 June 2019 Wenger was defiant his team could win the title after Arsenal beat West Ham to move top; it was their sixth consecutive league win and victory was ensured when Fàbregas converted a penalty late on.We can win the title says Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/8578374.stm BBC Sport 20 March 2010 14 June 2019 They were without Vermaelen for the trip to St Andrew's as the defender was sent off against West Ham.Stuart James Squad sheets: Birmingham City v Arsenal https://www.theguardian.com/football/2010/mar/26/birmingham-arsenal-squad-sheets The Guardian 26 March 2010 12 May 2019 Arsenal were unable to hold on to their lead against Birmingham as Almunia's error gifted a stoppage-time equaliser, scored by Kevin Phillips. With six games remaining, Arsenal stood in third place, three points behind Chelsea and four on leaders Manchester United.Sam Sheringham Birmingham 1–1 Arsenal http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8587242.stm BBC Sport 27 March 2010 12 May 2019 At home against Wolverhampton Wanderers, Bendtner scored the winning goal in stoppage time, rising highest inside the six-yard box and heading in Sagna's cross.Phil Dawkes http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8595275.stm Arsenal 1–0 Wolverhampton 3 April 2010 11 May 2019 BBC Sport In the North London derby, Tottenham beat Arsenal at White Hart Lane to record their first league win against Wenger's side since November 1999.Marc Vesty http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8616181.stm Tottenham 2–1 Arsenal BBC Sport 14 April 2010 11 May 2019 Danny Rose on his debut opened the scoring with a 30-yard volley and Gareth Bale doubled the host's lead minutes into the second half. Bendtner scored with five minutes remaining of normal time but the game ended 2–1 to Tottenham, leaving Arsenal six points adrift of Chelsea at the top. Wenger was so incensed by Arsenal's response against Wigan – conceding three in the final 10 minutes to throw away a 2–0 lead – that he ordered the team bus to drop his players at Wigan railway station and told them to make their way back home.David Hytner Theo Walcott urges Arsenal to forget win over Chelsea as Wigan beckon https://www.theguardian.com/football/2010/dec/28/theo-walcott-arsenal-wigan The Guardian London 28 December 2009 11 May 2019 With Arsenal's title bid over, the team played out a goalless draw against Manchester City and then lost to Blackburn Rovers in early May.Mikey Stafford Shay Given injury a problem for Manchester City after Arsenal draw https://www.theguardian.com/football/2010/apr/26/arsenal-manchester-city-premier-league The Guardian London 26 April 2010 14 June 2019Chris Brereton Arsène Wenger refuses to flap over Lukasz Fabianski errors https://www.thetimes.com/sport/football/article/arsene-wenger-refuses-to-flap-over-lukasz-fabianski-errors-psnb5qt5xs7 The Times 4 May 2010 26 April 2019 Arsenal secured third place on the final day, beating Fulham at home by four goals.Ian Hughes http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8665276.stm Arsenal 4–0 Fulham BBC Sport 9 May 2010 12 May 2019 Matches 1 15 August 2009 17:30 BST Everton 1–6 Report Arsenal Saha 90 26 Denílson37 Vermaelen41 Gallas48 70 Fàbregas89 Eduardo Goodison Park Liverpool 39,309 Mark Halsey W 2 22 August 2009 15:00 BST Arsenal 4–1 Report Portsmouth Diaby 18 22 90Gallas 51Ramsey 69 37 Kaboul Emirates Stadium London 60,049 Steve Bennett W 3 29 August 2009 17:15 BST Manchester United 2–1 Report Arsenal 35 Evra59 pen. 62 Rooney62 Brown 64 o.g. Diaby 23 Song32 Gallas40 Arshavin45 Van Persie58 Almunia71 Eboué75 Sagna Old Trafford Manchester 75,095 Mike Dean L 4 12 September 2009 15:00 BST Manchester City 4–2 Report Arsenal 14 Lescott20 o.g. Almunia72 Bellamy80 81 Adebayor84 Wright-Phillips90+3 de Jong 19 Sagna63 Van Persie72 Song88 Rosický City of Manchester Stadium Manchester 47,339 Mark Clattenburg L 5 19 September 2009 15:00 BST Arsenal 4–0 Report Wigan Athletic 25 49 Vermaelen59 23 Eboué90 Fàbregas40 Song 53 Gómez65 Scharner Emirates Stadium London 59,103 Mike Jones W 6 26 September 2009 17:30 BST Fulham 0–1 Report Arsenal 26 Murphy45 Zamora70 Pantsil79 Konchesky 52 Van Persie Craven Cottage London 25,700 Martin Atkinson W 7 4 October 2009 13:30 BST Arsenal 6–2 Report Blackburn Rovers 17 Vermaelen33 45 Van Persie37 Arshavin57 Fàbregas75 Walcott89 Bendtner 4 Nzonzi30 Dunn11 Di Santo Emirates Stadium London 59,431 Peter Walton W 8 17 October 2009 15:00 BST Arsenal 3–1 Report Birmingham City 16 Van Persie18 Diaby84 Arshavin73 Song 38 Bowyer58 Hart63 Ridgewell Emirates Stadium London 60,082 Lee Probert W 9 25 October 2009 16:15 GMT West Ham United 2–2 Report Arsenal 74 Cole80 pen. Diamanti2 78 85 Parker71 Hines78 Collison 16 Van Persie37 Gallas77 Eboué80 Mannone Boleyn Ground London 34,442 Chris Foy D 10 31 October 2009 12:45 GMT Arsenal 3–0 Report Tottenham Hotspur 42 60 Van Persie43 Fàbregas78 Vermaelen 62 Crouch Emirates Stadium London 60,103 Mark Clattenburg W 11 7 November 2009 17:30 GMT Wolverhampton Wanderers 1–4 Report Arsenal 89 Craddock27 Ebanks-Blake60 Milijaš 28 o.g. Zubar36 o.g. Craddock45 Fàbregas66 40 Arshavin10 Gallas59 Gibbs Molineux Stadium Wolverhampton 28,937 Steve Bennett W 12 21 November 2009 15:00 GMT Sunderland 1–0 Report Arsenal 71 Bent84 Bardsley90 Richardson 90 Traoré Stadium of Light Sunderland 44,918 Alan Wiley L 13 29 November 2009 16:00 GMT Arsenal 0–3 Report Chelsea 26 Traoré90+5 Fàbregas 41 86 37 Drogba45 o.g. Vermaelen70 Mikel Emirates Stadium London 60,067 Andre Marriner L 14 5 December 2009 15:00 GMT Arsenal 2–0 Report Stoke City 26 Arshavin79 Ramsey 20' Fàbregas Emirates Stadium London 60,041 Mark Clattenburg W 15 13 December 2009 16:00 GMT Liverpool 1–2 Report Arsenal 41 Kuyt44 Aurélio55 Mascherano85 Lucas 50 o.g. Johnson58 81 Arshavin24 Denílson82 Fàbregas Anfield Liverpool 43,853 Howard Webb W 16 16 December 2009 19:45 GMT Burnley 1–1 Report Arsenal 28 pen. Alexander40 Eagles88 Caldwell 7 Fàbregas Turf Moor Lancashire 21,309 Mike Dean D 17 19 December 2009 17:30 GMT Arsenal 3–0 Report Hull City 45+4 Denílson59 Eduardo80 Diaby45 Nasri 45 Barmby45 Hunt45+2 Zayatte45+5 Boateng90+3 Olofinjana Emirates Stadium London 60,006 Steve Bennett W 18 27 December 2009 13:30 GMT Arsenal 3–0 Report Aston Villa 65 81 Fàbregas90+1 Diaby67 Song 55 A. Young76 Cuéllar90+4 Delph Emirates Stadium London 60,056 Phil Dowd W 19 30 December 2009 19:45 GMT Portsmouth 1–4 Report Arsenal 74 Belhadj45+2 Mokoena86 Hughes 28 o.g. Kaboul42 Nasri69 Ramsey81 Song Fratton Park Portsmouth 20,404 Alan Wiley W 20 9 January 2010 15:00 GMT Arsenal 2–2 Report Everton 28 o.g. Osman90+2 Rosický87 Sagna 12 Osman81 90+1 Pienaar Emirates Stadium London 60,053 Peter Walton D 21 17 January 2010 16:00 GMT Bolton Wanderers 0–2 Report Arsenal 35 Robinson 28 Fàbregas78 Mérida 37 Rosický77 Vermaelen Reebok Stadium Bolton 23,893 Phil Dowd W 22 20 January 2010 19:45 GMT Arsenal 4–2 Report Bolton Wanderers 43 Rosický52 Fàbregas65 Vermaelen85 Arshavin87 Clichy 7 Cahill28 pen. Taylor 47 Muamba68 McCann Emirates Stadium London 59,084 Alan Wiley W 23 27 January 2010 19:45 GMT Aston Villa 0–0 Report Arsenal 55 Heskey90+3 Dunne 13 Vermaelen84 Clichy Villa Park Birmingham 39,601 Lee Probert D 24 31 January 2010 16:00 GMT Arsenal 1–3 Report Manchester United 80 Vermaelen17 Song 33 o.g. Almunia37 Rooney52 Park Emirates Stadium London 60,091 Chris Foy L 25 7 February 2010 16:00 GMT Chelsea 2–0 Report Arsenal 8 23 Drogba88 Zhirkov88 J. Cole 83 Song84 Fàbregas Stamford Bridge London 41,794 Mike Dean L 26 10 February 2010 19:45 GMT Arsenal 1–0 Report Liverpool 72 Diaby40 Clichy64 Bendtner90+5 Fàbregas 41 Rodríguez62 Degen Emirates Stadium London 60,045 Howard Webb W 27 20 February 2010 15:00 GMT Arsenal 2–0 Report Sunderland 27 Bendtner90+3 pen. Fàbregas50 Fàbregas 34 Cana44 Turner58 Richardson71 Mensah90+2 Ferdinand Emirates Stadium London 60,083 Steve Bennett W 28 27 February 2010 17:30 GMT Stoke City 1–3 Report Arsenal 8 Pugh0 66 Shawcross 32 Bendtner90+1 pen. Fàbregas90+4 Vermaelen62 Song Britannia Stadium Stoke-on-Trent 27,011 Peter Walton W 29 6 March 2010 15:00 GMT Arsenal 3–1 Report Burnley 34 Fàbregas60 Walcott90+4 Arshavin 50 Nugent27 McDonald48 Paterson69 Carlisle72 Elliott Emirates Stadium London 60,043 Chris Foy W 30 13 March 2010 17:30 GMT Hull City 1–2 Report Arsenal 28 pen. Bullard39 Dawson2 41 45+1Boateng 14 Arshavin90+3 40 Bendtner28 Campbell KC Stadium Kingston upon Hull 25,023 Andre Marriner W 31 20 March 2010 17:30 GMT Arsenal 2–0 Report West Ham United 5 Denílson83 pen. Fàbregas0 44 Vermaelen39 Campbell 38 44' Diamanti45+1 Kováč62 Upson90+1 Daprelà Emirates Stadium London 60,077 Martin Atkinson W 32 27 March 2010 15:00 GMT Birmingham City 1–1 Report Arsenal 90+2 Phillips73 Ferguson85 Gardner89 Carr 81 Nasri16 Song25 Clichy St Andrew's Birmingham 27,039 Howard Webb D 33 3 April 2010 15:00 BST Arsenal 1–0 Report Wolverhampton Wanderers 90+4 Bendtner 0 66 Henry64 Jarvis79 Mancienne Emirates Stadium London 60,067 Andre Marriner W 34 14 April 2010 20:00 BST Tottenham Hotspur 2–1 Report Arsenal 85 Bendtner36 Denílson 10 Rose47 Bale33 Modrić36 Kaboul83 Dawson White Hart Lane London 36,041 Mark Clattenburg L 35 18 April 2010 13:30 BST Wigan Athletic 3–2 Report Arsenal 80 Watson89, 68 Bramble90+1 N'Zogbia24 Diamé 41 Walcott48 Silvestre37 Nasri DW Stadium Wigan 22,113 Lee Mason L 36 24 April 2010 17:30 BST Arsenal 0–0 Report Manchester City 42 Silvestre51 Diaby67 Song82 Van Persie 81 Bellamy83 Zabaleta Emirates Stadium London 60,086 Mike Dean D 37 3 May 2010 17:00 BST Blackburn Rovers 2–1 Report Arsenal Grella 25Dunn 44Pedersen 59Samba 68 13 Van Persie65 Silvestre90 Campbell Ewood Park Blackburn 26,138 Martin Atkinson L 38 9 May 2010 16:00 BST Arsenal 4–0 Report Fulham Arshavin 21Van Persie 26Baird 37 o.g.Eboué 68Fabiański 69Vela 84 65 Dempsey90+3 Kelly Emirates Stadium London 60,039 Mike Jones W Classification ARS Results summary 15 2 2 48 15 8 4 7 35 26 July 2009 Results by round table b Round Ground A/H/A/A/H/A/H/H/A/H/A/A/H/H/A/A/H/H/A/H/A/H/A/H/A/H/H/A/H/A/H/A/H/A/A/H/A/H Result W/W/L/L/W/W/W/W/D/W/W/L/L/W/W/D/W/W/W/D/W/W/D/L/L/W/W/W/W/W/W/D/W/L/L/D/L/W Position 1/1/5/8/6/5/4/4/3/3/2/3/4/3/3/3/3/3/3/3/3/2/3/3/3/3/3/3/3/3/2/3/3/3/3/3/3/3 Home Away green2 Win yellow2 Draw red2 Loss 1st 2nd 3rd red1 http://www.statto.com/football/teams/arsenal/2009-2010 Arsenal – 2009–10 Statto Organisation 26 October 2012 23 October 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121023055759/http://www.statto.com/football/teams/arsenal/2009-2010 live May 2011 FA Cup 2009–10 FA Cup Arsenal entered the FA Cup in the third round (last 64), in which they were drawn to face fellow Premier League club West Ham United away from home.http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/8384168.stm FA Cup third round draw pairs Chelsea and Watford 8 December 2009 18 April 2019 BBC Sport They came from a goal down to beat their London rivals and progress,Kevin McCarra Aaron Ramsey takes Arsenal past resilient West Ham United https://www.theguardian.com/football/2010/jan/03/west-ham-arsenal-match-report The Guardian London 3 January 2010 14 June 2019 but made an exit the following round against Stoke where an understrength side were undone in the final 20 minutes. Wenger defended his team selection, pointing out to the media: "We had 10 injuries and a very difficult programme coming up."Wenger defends selection policy http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/8477774.stm BBC Sport 24 January 2010 12 May 2019 Third round 3 January 2010 16:15 GMT West Ham United 1–2 Report Arsenal Diamanti 45+1Daprelà 45 78 Ramsey83 Eduardo27 Song London Boleyn Ground 25,549 Mark Clattenburg W Fourth round 24 January 2010 13:30 GMT Stoke City 3–1 Report Arsenal Fuller 2 78Whitehead 86 42 Denílson Stoke-on-Trent Britannia Stadium 19,735 Martin Atkinson L Football League Cup 2009–10 Football League Cup Arsenal entered the Football League Cup in the third round, where they were drawn at home against West Bromwich Albion. Helped by the dismissal of Jerome Thomas, Arsenal's young team – averaging at 20 years – were able to beat the visitors by two goals to progress.Arsenal 2–0 West Brom http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/league_cup/8256834.stm BBC Sport 22 September 2009 15 June 2019 A strong performance against Liverpool followed in the competition,Mandeep Sanghera Arsenal 2–1 Liverpool http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/league_cup/8323097.stm BBC Sport 28 October 2009 15 June 2019 but Arsenal were knocked out in the quarter-final stage when Manchester City defeated them by three goals.Phil McNulty Man City 3–0 Arsenal http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/league_cup/8387312.stm BBC Sport 2 December 2009 15 June 2019 Third round 22 September 2009 19:45 BST Arsenal 2–0 Report West Bromwich Albion Watt 68Vela 76Senderos 32Ramsey 57 0 37 Thomas38 Cox London Emirates Stadium 56,592 Lee Mason W Fourth round 28 October 2009 19:45 GMT Arsenal 2–1 Report Liverpool Mérida 19Bendtner 50 26 Insúa London Emirates Stadium 60,004 Alan Wiley W Fifth round 2 December 2009 19:45 GMT Manchester City 3–0 Report Arsenal Tevez 50Wright-Phillips 69Weiss 89Kompany 82 Bellamy 83 38 Traoré39 Eastmond58 Silvestre77 Wilshere79 Song82 Ramsey Manchester City of Manchester Stadium 46,015 Chris Foy L UEFA Champions League 2009–10 UEFA Champions League Given Arsenal finished fourth in the league the previous season, the club played a qualifying round against Celtic to ensure progression into the group stages.Celtic & Arsenal in Euro showdown http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/8187226.stm BBC Sport 7 August 2009 15 June 2019 In the first leg at Celtic Park, Arsenal broke the deadlock when Fábregas' free-kick deflected in off defender William Gallas and past the goal net.Kevin McCarra Slick Arsenal put Celtic to the sword https://www.theguardian.com/football/2009/aug/18/arsenal-celtic-champions-league The Guardian London 19 August 2009 15 June 2019 Gary Caldwell's own goal deep into the second half strengthened Arsenal's advantage on a night when their midfielder Alex Song was described by journalist David Hytner as being "...outstanding, his strength, smart positioning and interceptions helping to stem Celtic raids and launch those of his own team."David Hytner New-look Arsenal aim to capitalise on Cesc Fábregas's craft https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2009/aug/18/arsenal-celtic-champions-league The Guardian London 18 August 2009 15 June 2019 Arsenal beat Celtic 3–1 in the return leg a week later; it was not without controversy as the Celtic players accused Eduardo of diving to win his team a penalty that led to the first goal.Phil McNulty Arsenal 3–1 Celtic (agg 5–1) http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/8215721.stm BBC Sport 26 August 2009 15 June 2019 UEFA charged the striker and banned him for two matches as he was found guilty of deceiving referee Manuel Gonzalez.Uefa bans Eduardo for two matches http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/8232544.stm BBC Sport 1 September 2009 15 June 2019 Arsenal lodged an appeal and the ban was overturned at a later date.Uefa overturns Eduardo diving ban http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/8236689.stm BBC Sport 14 September 2009 15 June 2019 Play-off round 2009–10 UEFA Champions League qualifying phase and play-off round First leg 18 August 2009 19:45 BST Celtic SCO 0–2 Report ENG Arsenal 52 Fox58 N'Guemo86 Loovens 43 Gallas71 o.g. Caldwell84 Clichy Glasgow, Scotland Celtic Park 58,165 Massimo Busacca (Switzerland) W Second leg 26 August 2009 19:45 BST Arsenal ENG 3–1 5–1 Report SCO Celtic 28 pen. Eduardo53, 53 Eboué74 Arshavin83 Denílson 90+2 Donati33 Caldwell56 McGeady83 Brown London, England Emirates Stadium 59,962 Manuel Mejuto González (Spain) W Group stage 2009–10 UEFA Champions League group stage#Group H Arsenal were drawn in Group H, along with Greek club Olympiacos, Belgian side Standard Liège and Dutch champions AZ Alkmaar.British clubs avoid Euro giants http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/8223263.stm BBC Sport 27 August 2009 15 June 2019 The team mounted a comeback against Standard Liège on the first night of the competition, having conceded twice in the space of the first five minutes.David Hytner Eduardo makes most of reprieve to cap Arsenal comeback at Liège https://www.theguardian.com/football/2009/sep/16/champions-league-standard-liege-arsenal The Guardian London 16 September 2009 15 June 2019 Eduardo's deciding goal, which came nine minutes before the end marked the fifth season in the previous six that Arsenal opened their campaign with a win.Sam Lyon Standard Liege 2–3 Arsenal http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/8254473.stm BBC Sport 16 September 2009 15 June 2019 Late goals from Van Persie and Arshavin secured a 2–0 win at home to Olympiacos,Henry Winter Arsenal 2 Olympiakos 0: match report https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/6243806/Arsenal-2-Olympiakos-0-match-report.html The Daily Telegraph London 30 September 2009 15 June 2019 but the team were unable to make it three wins after conceding a stoppage-time goal to draw 1–1 against AZ.Paul Fletcher AZ Alkmaar 1–1 Arsenal http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/8315195.stm BBC Sport 20 October 2009 15 June 2019 In the reverse match, staged on matchday four, Fábregas scored twice in Arsenal's 4–1 win which put the club on 10 points in the group.Paul Fletcher Arsenal 4–1 AZ Alkmaar http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/8338520.stm BBC Sport 4 November 2009 15 June 2019 Victory against Standard Liège ensured qualification into the knockout stages with a match to spare.Russell Kempson Kieran Gibbs injury removes gloss from easy Arsenal victory https://www.thetimes.com/article/kieran-gibbs-injury-removes-gloss-from-easy-arsenal-victory-qgm5vxmqvgq The Times 25 November 2009 15 June 2019 That game was against Olympiacos, which Wenger made changes to his first XI. Arsenal lost 1–0 at the Karaiskakis Stadium.Mark Ashenden Olympiakos 1–0 Arsenal http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/8402103.stm BBC Sport 9 December 2009 15 June 2019 Group H n ARS 1 16 September 2009 20:45 CEST Standard Liège BEL 2–3 Report ENG Arsenal Mangala 3Jovanović 5 pen.Witsel 68Nicaise 76 Clichy 34Bendtner 45Vermaelen 78Eduardo 81 Liège, Belgium Stade Maurice Dufrasne 23,022 Eduardo Iturralde González (Spain) W 2 29 September 2009 19:45 BST Arsenal ENG 2–0 Report GRE Olympiacos Van Persie 52, 78Arshavin 86Fàbregas 90 Żewłakow 52Dudu 66Torosidis 80Bravo 89 London, England Emirates Stadium 59,884 Stéphane Lannoy (France) W 3 20 October 2009 20:45 CEST AZ NED 1–1 Report ENG Arsenal Mendes da Silva 90+3Lens 89 Fàbregas 36Van Persie 48Clichy 66Vela 77 Alkmaar, Netherlands DSB Stadion 16,666 Martin Hansson (Sweden) D 4 4 November 2009 19:45 GMT Arsenal ENG 4–1 Report NED AZ Fàbregas 25 52Nasri 43Diaby 72 Moisander 66Lens 82 London, England Emirates Stadium 59,345 Alain Hamer (Luxembourg) W 5 24 November 2009 19:45 GMT Arsenal ENG 2–0 Report BEL Standard Liège Nasri 35Denílson 45+2Fàbregas 87 Mulemo 68Mangala 70Carcela 0 86 London, England Emirates Stadium 59,941 Konrad Plautz (Austria) W 6 9 December 2009 21:45 EET Olympiacos GRE 1–0 Report ENG Arsenal Leonardo 24, 47 Mérida 40 Piraeus, Greece Karaiskakis Stadium 30,277 Lucílio Batista (Portugal) L Knockout phase 2009–10 UEFA Champions League knockout phase Round of 16 Arsenal faced Porto in the knockout stages. In the first leg at the Estádio do Dragão, an own goal by goalkeeper Łukasz Fabiański gave Porto the lead, but Campbell scored Arsenal a crucial away goal seven minutes later when he headed in a corner.Henry Winter FC Porto 2 Arsenal 1: match report https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/7258205/FC-Porto-2-Arsenal-1-match-report.html The Daily Telegraph London 18 February 2010 15 June 2019 Radamel Falcao restored Porto's lead in the second half and the tie finished 2–1 in their favour. At the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal overturned Porto's slender advantage as Bendtner scored twice inside the first 25 minutes.Oliver Kay Samir Nasri's dancing feet supply Arsenal's highlight of an irresistible beauty pageant https://www.thetimes.com/sport/football/article/samir-nasris-dancing-feet-supply-arsenals-highlight-of-an-irresistible-beauty-pageant-ggk9sfclvw8 The Times 10 March 2010 15 June 2019 Nasri and Emmanuel Eboué added further goals before Bendtner converted a penalty to round off a hat-trick. First leg 17 February 2010 19:45 WET Porto POR 2–1 Report ENG Arsenal Fabiański 11 o.g.Falcao 51Alves 34Fucile 64Pereira 78Fernando 84 Campbell 18Diaby 31 Porto, Portugal Estádio do Dragão 40,717 Martin Hansson (Sweden) L Second leg 9 March 2010 19:45 GMT Arsenal ENG 5–0 6–2 Report POR Porto Bendtner 10 25 90+1 pen., 44Nasri 63 Eboué 66Vermaelen 38 Falcao 24Pereira 59 London, England Emirates Stadium 59,661 Frank De Bleeckere (Belgium) W Quarter-finals In the quarter-finals, Arsenal played Barcelona which marked the return of former club captain Thierry Henry.David Hytner Barcelona draw reawakens 2006 final agony for Arsenal's Arsène Wenger https://www.theguardian.com/football/2010/mar/20/arsene-wenger-arsenal-barcelona-champions-league The Guardian London 20 March 2010 15 June 2019 Barcelona dominated proceedings but did not find a way through the Arsenal defence until the early stages of the second half; Zlatan Ibrahimovic took advantage of Almunia leaving his box and rushing towards him by lofting the ball over the goalkeeper.Kevin McCarra Cesc Fábregas penalty gives Arsenal hope to take to Barcelona https://www.theguardian.com/football/2010/mar/31/arsenal-barcelona-champions-league-match-report The Guardian London 31 March 2010 15 June 2019 Ibrahimovic doubled Barcelona's lead, to which Wenger responded by bringing Walcott on. The forward made an instant impact with his pace and acceleration, scoring past Victor Valdes. Barcelona defender Carles Puyol was sent off for a second bookable offence when he fouled Fábregas in the box, and the Arsenal captain converted the penalty awarded by the referee to equalise. Walcott, who Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola described as Arsenal's biggest threat,Sid Lowe Pep Guardiola of Barcelona fears speed of Arsenal's Theo Walcott https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2010/apr/06/barcelona-arsenal-champions-league The Guardian London 6 April 2010 17 April 2019 was named in the first XI for the return leg and set Bendtner up to score.Kevin McCarra Lionel Messi blows Arsenal away with four goals for Barcelona https://www.theguardian.com/football/2010/apr/06/barcelona-arsenal-champions-league The Guardian London 6 April 2010 15 June 2019 The joy was short lived as Messi equalised within minutes and he added a further three goals to give Barcelona a 6–3 aggregate win – 4–1 on the night. Wenger was full of praise for Messi afterwards, telling reporters: "...We lost against a team that is better than us and that has the best player in the world. Once he's on the run, Messi is unstoppable. He's the only player who can change direction at such a pace."Arsene Wenger hails Lionel Messi as world's best player http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/8606391.stm BBC Sport 7 April 2010 15 June 2019 First leg 31 March 2010 19:45 BST Arsenal ENG 2–2 Report ESP Barcelona Walcott 69Fàbregas 85 pen. 44Arshavin 21Song 40Eboué 74Diaby 79 Ibrahimović 46 59Puyol 0 84Piqué 72 London, England Emirates Stadium 59,572 Massimo Busacca (Switzerland) D Second leg 6 April 2010 20:45 CEST Barcelona ESP 4–1 6–3 Report ENG Arsenal Messi 21 37 42 88 Bendtner 18Denílson 31Rosický 45Eboué 67 Barcelona, Spain Camp Nou 93,330 Wolfgang Stark (Germany) L Squad statistics Arsenal used a total of 41 players during the 2009–10 season and there were 20 different goalscorers. There were also four squad members who did not make a first-team appearance in the campaign. This was the first season the team played in a 4–3–3 formation, utilised for the benefit of Fàbregas. Sagna featured in 44 matches – the most of any Arsenal player in the campaign. Vermaelen started in 33 league matches. The team scored a total of 115 goals in all competitions. The highest scorer was Fàbregas, with 19 goals, 15 of which scored in the league. Vermaelen was the only Arsenal player to be sent off in the entire season. The side's continuing sportsmanship was acknowledged at the end of the season with the Barclays Fair Play Award.http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/arsenal-top-premier-league-fair-play-table Arsenal top Premier League Fair Play table 14 May 2010 15 June 2019 Arsenal F.C. https://web.archive.org/web/20100517125613/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/arsenal-top-premier-league-fair-play-table 17 May 2010 dead KeyNo. = Squad numberPos = Playing positionNat. = NationalityApps = AppearancesGK = GoalkeeperDF = DefenderMF = MidfielderFW''' = Forward 12px|alt=|Yellow cards = Yellow cards 12px|alt=|Red cards = Red cardsNumbers in parentheses denote appearances as substitute. Players with number struck through and marked Left club during playing season left the club during the playing season.'' No.Pos.Nat.NamePremier LeagueFA CupLeague CupEuropeTotalDisciplineAppsGoalsAppsGoalsAppsGoalsAppsGoalsAppsGoals13px|Booked|alt=A yellow rectangular card13px|Sent off|alt=A red rectangular card1GKESPManuel Almunia 290000070360102MFFRAAbou Diaby 26 (3)6(1)0009 (1)135 (5)7403DFFRABacary Sagna 31 (4)010007 (1)039 (5)0304MFESPCesc Fàbregas 26 (1)1510008435 (1)19805DFBELThomas Vermaelen 3371000111458416DFSUIPhilippe Senderos Left club during playing season0000200020107MFCZETomáš Rosický14 (11)300105 (2)020 (13)3208MFFRASamir Nasri22 (4)2(1)0106329 (5)5209FWCROEduardo13 (11)21 (1)1102 (3)217 (15)50010DFFRAWilliam Gallas2631100813542011FWNEDRobin van Persie14 (2)900004118 (2)105012FWMEXCarlos Vela1 (10)1201 (1)12 (3)06 (14)21014MFENGTheo Walcott12 (11)310002 (4)115 (15)40015MFBRADenílson19 (1)311005 (2)125 (3)53016MFWALAaron Ramsey7 (11)31 (1)1301 (5)012 (17)42017MFCMRAlex Song25 (1)1101010037 (1)113018DFFRAMikaël Silvestre9 (3)120302 (1)016 (4)13019MFENGJack Wilshere Left club during playing season(1)010201 (2)04 (3)01020DFSUIJohan Djourou(1)0000000(1)00021GKPOLŁukasz Fabiański402020201001022DFFRAGaël Clichy23 (1)000009032 (1)06023MFRUSAndrey Arshavin25 (5)10(1)0007 (1)232 (7)123024GKITAVito Mannone50000030801027DFCIVEmmanuel Eboué17 (8)100106 (4)224 (12)36028DFENGKieran Gibbs30002020701030DFFRAArmand Traoré901020001203031DFENGSol Campbell10 (1)010002113 (1)13032MFESPFran Mérida(4)11021104 (4)21033MFNEDNacer Barazite0000(1)000(1)00034MFENGKyle Bartley Left club during playing season00000010100035MFFRAFrancis Coquelin00101 (1)0002 (1)00036DFENGThomas Cruise00000010100037DFENGCraig Eastmond2 (2)01020005 (2)01038MFENGJay Emmanuel-Thomas Left club during playing season00100000100042DFENGKerrea Gilbert Left club during playing season00002010300045MFENGHenri Lansbury Left club during playing season(1)0000000(1)00048MFENGMark Randall Left club during playing season0000(2)000(2)00051FWFRAGilles Sunu Left club during playing season000010(1)01 (1)00052FWDENNicklas Bendtner13 (10)600117521 (10)123053GKPOLWojciech Szczęsny Left club during playing season00001000100054MFENGSanchez Watt Left club during playing season00001 (2)1001 (2)100 Source:First Team Stats http://www.arsenal.com/first-team/statistics?season=2009/10 Arsenal F.C 15 December 2013 https://web.archive.org/web/20131215213835/http://www.arsenal.com/first-team/statistics?season=2009%2F10 15 December 2013 dead Arsenal Squad Stats http://espnfc.com/team/squad/_/id/359/season/2009/league/all/arsenal?cc=5739 ESPN FC 15 December 2013 See also English football 2009–10 in English football List of Arsenal F.C. seasons References 2009-10 Arsenal Arsenal