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.
Despite not always being a starter, Belhadj's return to face Liverpool on December 20, 2009, proved successful for Avram Grant as he was able to control former Pompey favorite Glen Johnson. Belhadj then scored the game's opening goal.