The young Nigerian fullback has returned to the States after a brief stint in Europe
American outfit Portland Thorns FC have completed the signing of Super Falcons defender, Nicole Payne from PSG, Soccernet.ng reports.
The French giants announced the transfer of the America-born Nigeria internationally on their official channels.
Portland Thorns FC secured the services of the 23-year-old defender on a season-long loan from the reigning champions of Division 1 Féminine in France. She made only four appearances for PSG
Under the terms of the agreement, Nicole Payne will don the Portland Thorns FC jersey until December 31, 2024, on loan with an option to make the deal permanent.
It is a return to American football for Payne, who only joined PSG in July 2023 after concluding her collegiate career in the United States.
Before her European adventure, Payne honed her skills in the collegiate arena at the University of Southern California, where she netted three goals in 16 matches, predominantly as a starter.
Before her time as a Trojan, she spent three fruitful years at West Virginia University, tallying four goals and three assists in 53 matches, with two NCAA Tournament appearances under her belt.
On the international scene, Payne represented the United States at the U17 and U19 levels before deciding to switch allegiance to Nigeria, the birthplace of her parents.
Payne, who now boasts seven international caps, made her debut for the Nigeria Women’s National Team in June of 2021 against Jamaica.
The young defender also participated at the 2022 Women’s African Cup of Nations in Morocco, where the Super Falcons surrendered their continental crown to South Africa.
Payne is the younger sister of Nigeria and Sevilla midfielder Toni Payne.
Welcome home, Nicole Payne! The talented defender returns to American soil, joining Portland Thorns FC from PSG on a season-long loan. A rising star with international experience, Payne adds depth and skill to the Thorns’ lineup. Here’s to a successful season ahead in the States!