Former Liverpool defender Vegard Heggem, who played for Norway at the 1998 World Cup, has built a successful salmon fishing lodge in his homeland after his playing career was cut short by injury. The 50-year-old spent five years at Anfield after joining from Rosenborg in 1998, making 61 appearances in his first two seasons before injuries limited him to just four more matches. He retired at the age of 28.
From Anfield to Aunan Lodge
Rather than moving into coaching or punditry, Heggem pursued his passion for fishing. In 2021, he told LFCTV: "When I moved away to play football, I started to think about what to do when my playing days were over. I've got a passion for fishing, in particular salmon fishing, so the idea of opening a fishing lodge seemed like a great idea. I can't imagine a better job now than being host for fishermen from all over the world that come here to hunt for Atlantic salmon."
His Aunan Lodge in Norway is decorated with Liverpool memorabilia, reflecting his affection for his time at the club. Heggem added: "There wasn't much I could have done differently. I was really unlucky with injuries. I did my very best to get back playing. I thought the club did everything they could to get me fit. But rather than be bitter or regretful about the games I didn't play, I'd rather appreciate those games that I did play. I've scored in front of the Kop, what more can you really ask for?"
Liverpool Career Highlights
Heggem scored twice in front of the Kop: first in a 3-1 win over Middlesbrough in February 1999, and later in a victory against Bradford City in November of the same year. He also holds a place in Liverpool folklore as the player substituted to make way for Steven Gerrard's debut in a 2-0 win over Blackburn in November 1998.
Internationally, Heggem earned 20 caps for Norway. He was part of the squad at the 1998 World Cup, though he remained an unused substitute as Norway reached the last 16. He also played at Euro 2000. Now 50, Heggem will be watching closely as England face Norway in the World Cup quarter-finals on Saturday.
