History

26. O'Leary breaks appearances record

David O'Leary v Norwich City - 1989

David O'Leary sets a new appearances record 4 November 1989

On November 4, 1989 David O’Leary broke the overall appearances record for Arsenal when he played his 622nd game for the Club in all competitions, during a 4-3 win over Norwich City at Highbury.

He equalled the record held by George Armstrong the game before, at home to Derby County on October 28, 1989. The match finished a 1-1 draw with Alan Smith scoring for Arsenal.

The record-breaking fixture was a much better game. Lee Dixon struck twice, once from the penalty spot, Niall Quinn grabbed one and O’Leary managed to get on the scoresheet himself on his big day.

O’Leary still holds the record for Arsenal appearances, 722 in total from 1975-1993.

He made his debut for Arsenal against Burnley on August 16, 1975 and played his final game in the FA Cup Final replay against Sheffield Wednesday on May 20, 1993.