Official: Super Falcons’ ‘Messi’ joins Everton from Sevilla

Toni Payne, currently in the Super Falcons’ camp for their upcoming Summer Olympic tournament, has previously played for Ajax and Sevilla

Super Falcons forward Tony Payne has signed a deal with Everton FC, the champions of the FA Women’s Soccer League 2 Spring Series 2017, Soccernet.ng reports.

Payne, known for her quick feet and dribbling skills, has earned the nickname ‘Super Falcons’ Messi’ from Nigerian football fans, drawing comparisons to former Barcelona star Lionel Messi.

After ending her six-year stint with Spanish side Sevilla, Payne attracted the interest of Everton Women’s coach Brian Sorensen, who has made her his first summer signing.

Expressing her joy following the contract agreement with the English side, Payne, who was born in Alabama, United States, shared her excitement about joining the Walton Hall Park outfit.

“I’m super excited to be an Everton player. It’s been my dream to play in the UK and in such a strong league like the WSL,” Payne told Evertontv. “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. It’s going to be different and new, and I’m really happy about my decision.”

Payne, who has 21 caps for Nigeria, was part of the Super Falcons squad that competed at the 2023 World Cup finals in Australia and New Zealand, where they were narrowly beaten by England in the Round of 16.

With her move to Everton, Payne is poised to bring her exceptional skills and experience to the Women’s Super League, aiming to make a significant impact at her new club.

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and an Editor at Soccernet.ng, with a proven track record in conducting interviews with Super Eagles stars such as William Troost-Ekong, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ademola Lookman, and many others. He has also made a significant impact in breaking transfer news stories. Grounded in video editing, video journalism, social media management, and content strategy, Ayomide brings a wealth of expertise to his work. With a Bachelor's degree in English Language from Adeyemi College of Education and a Master's Degree in School Library and Media Technology from the University of Ibadan, Ayomide is well-prepared to excel in the field.

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