The following season, Nobbs was an "integral" part of Sunderland's success as they finished fifth in their first season back at the top level. In November 2009, Nobbs scored against Arsenal, as Sunderland inflicted only the Gunners' second league defeat in more than six years. At the end of the season, Nobbs was named manager's and player's player of the year at Sunderland. She also won the 2010 FA Young Player of the Year award.
