Everton has officially announced the signing of Nigerian international forward Toni Payne from Sevilla. The 29-year-old striker joins the Women’s Super League (WSL) club after a notable six-year tenure with the Spanish side.
“I’m very happy to be an Everton player. It was my dream to play in the UK and in a league as strong as the WSL,” Payne expressed in an interview with Everton’s media team.
Her enthusiasm marks a significant moment in her career, as she steps into one of the most competitive women’s leagues globally.
Born in Alabama, Payne initially represented the United States at youth levels. However, her career took a pivotal turn when she decided to represent Nigeria at the senior level.
Since making this switch, Payne has earned 21 caps for the Super Falcons, becoming an integral part of the team.
Payne’s experience at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand was a highlight of her international career.
Although Nigeria was narrowly defeated by England in the round of 16, Payne’s performance throughout the tournament garnered attention.
Her agility, vision, and goal-scoring ability have made her a standout player for both her club and country.
During her time at Sevilla, Payne consistently demonstrated her prowess on the field. Her technical skills, combined with her ability to read the game, made her a key player for the Spanish club.
Over six seasons, she contributed significantly to Sevilla’s attacking strategies, earning respect and admiration from teammates and opponents alike.
Everton’s acquisition of Payne is part of the club’s broader strategy to strengthen their squad and make a significant impact in the WSL.
The club’s management is confident that Payne’s experience and skills will add depth to their attacking options, providing a new dynamic to their play.
As Payne settles into her new role at Everton, expectations are high for her to replicate and possibly exceed her performances in Spain.
The WSL is known for its competitive nature, and Payne’s move to Everton represents an exciting challenge for the forward.
Her presence is expected to boost the team’s performance and inspire younger players in the squad.
For Payne, this move is more than just a career milestone. It represents the fulfillment of a long-held dream and an opportunity to showcase her talents on one of the biggest stages in women’s football.
“Playing in the WSL has always been a goal for me,” she said. “I am eager to contribute to Everton’s success and take my game to the next level.”
Toni Payne’s transfer to Everton is a significant development in the world of women’s football. Her journey from Alabama to representing Nigeria and excelling in Spain exemplifies her determination and talent.
As she embarks on this new chapter with Everton, fans and followers of the WSL will be keen to see how she shapes the future of her new team.
We have completed the signing of Nigeria international forward Toni Payne. ✍️#EFC
— Everton Women (@EvertonWomen) July 19, 2024
