Arsenal fans, staff, players and Arsene Wenger himself helped raise a record £250,000 for charity at the recent Manchester City game, it was announced last night.

For the past nine seasons, the Arsenal Foundation has held a dedicated charity matchday.

Mr Wenger and his players – who all donated a day’s wages – joined generous club employees and supporters in making December’s 2-1 win over City an even bigger reason to celebrate with the record amount.

The proceeds will be used to refurbish football pitches around Islington, Camden and Hackney.

Meanwhile, community groups will also be boosted with grants, while the north London arm of Freedom from Torture - which delivers football and therapy sessions for refugees who have been tortured - will get further support from the foundation.

Mr Wenger said: “We all love Arsenal and we are very proud to have that power of influencing people’s lives in a positive way.

“For me and for all the players, all the staff and everybody involved at Arsenal, the charity matchday is always a special day. We are very happy to help.”