17th MAY

Departing Norwegian defender Vegard Heggem has paid tribute to Liverpool chairman David Moores and explained why everyone at this club should be proud of him.

With his Liverpool contract soon to expire Heggem is currently back in his native Norway where he's mulling over his future options.

Despite his Anfield career being plagued by injuries he admits he has 'loads of good memories' from his time with the Reds and takes with him fond recollections of the chairman.

"As a player, I have always been really proud of having a chairman like him. I think all the people involved with the club and all the fans should be proud of David Moores," Heggem told icons.com.

"His love for the club, for the players, for the staff and for the fans is so heartfelt. I know this because he travels with us for so many away games and for so many big occasions. Just from the look in his eyes you can tell how much he loves this club, and how much it means to him when it is successful.

"The chairman doesn't want the success for himself. Nor does he use the club to get himself into the limelight or into the newspapers. If anything, it's the opposite. He is happy to stay in the background. He just wants the club to do well for everyone involved.

"The chairman is one of the richest men in Europe. You don't know what to expect when you first meet someone like that, but David Moores is genuinely a nice guy. He has made a big impression on me and I am really grateful to have played for the club during his time as chairman."

Match Type:-Friendly

SARS virus permitting, Liverpool are still scheduled to fly out to the Far East for their 2003-2004 pre-season tour.

The first match is scheduled in China against a Shanghai XI on Thursday, 24th July.

Further details to be announced.

OUT: Patrick Berger (free), Bernard Diomede (free), Veggard Heggem (free)