Although he has not always kept a first team place, his recall to face Liverpool on 20 December 2009 was an inspired move by Avram Grant as Belhadj was able to keep former Pompey favourite Glen Johnson under control. Belhadj scored the first goal in the game. A highlight of the 2009–10 season for Belhadj was a goal against local rivals Southampton in the FA Cup on 13 February 2010. Belhadj's last appearance for Portsmouth was as a substitute in the 2010 FA Cup final.