American footballer Payne switches to Nigeria

United States Women’s U-23 star, Antionette Oyedupe Payne has decided to switch her international allegiance to Nigeria after consulting her family.

Payne, whose parents Oyekele and Mojemilat Payne are Nigerians, has been in the United States since she was 13, after she represented America at the U-17 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Azerbaijan, and has been part of the United States U-23 team setup since January.

On her decision, she said: “I am ready to play for Nigeria now after thinking about this decision for the past one year and getting the support of my family.

“I know Nigeria have some good players and play an attacking style and personally this fits my style.

“My best position is attacking midfield, but I could also play as a centre-forward. I believe if I am given a chance, I will prove myself again,” she further stated.

Meanwhile, her younger brother Stephen is on the books of Portuguese club Estoril, while younger sister Nicole has already been scouted for the United States U-17 team.