Super Falcons Midfielder, Toni Payne, has today, July 19, 2024, joined Everton Ladies on a free transfer after leaving Spanish Iberdrola side, Sevilla, following a six-year term with the side.
The 29-year-old who is Brian Sorensen’s first summer signing, expressed her joy to play at Everton and the Women’s Super League.
” It’s been my dream to play in the UK and in such a strong league like the WSL. I’m excited to have the opportunity to play at a club like Everton with so much history in football.
“Now was the right moment for me to look for another challenge to push myself. I hope to put in my best at my new club.”
The Nigerian International was born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama to Nigerian parents. She is the older sister of fellow footballers Stephen and Nicole Payne. She and her sister Nicole have played together in the Nigeria women’s national team.
Toni played for the United States at the Youth level winning the 2012 CONCACAF Women’s U-17 Championship but in 2019, decided to represent Nigeria.
She made her senior debut on February 18 2021 starting against Russian club CSKA Moscow at the Turkish Women’s Cup and was called up to play in the 2023 Women’s World Cup on June 16, 2023.
The Midfielder who is in the Super Falcons squad for the fast-approaching Olympics has since etched her name in the team, putting on impressive performances every time(21) she dawns the Nigerian jersey.
Annitra Poulter