Everton has secured the signature of Republic of Ireland international, Heather Payne, on a two-year contract extending until the end of June 2025.
At 23 years old, Payne arrives at the club following a four-year stint in the United States with the college team Florida State Seminoles.
Known for her adaptability across various positions along the right flank, Payne is the sixth addition to Everton Women's roster this summer, joining the likes of striker Martina Piemonte, goalkeeper Emily Ramsey, and midfielders Emma Bissell, Justine Vanhaevermaet, and Karoline Olesen.
"I'm absolutely thrilled to be joining Everton," Payne said to Evertontv.
"This club boasts an impressive history of nurturing talent. I've always harbored the desire to play in England, and I genuinely believe that it hosts one of the most competitive leagues globally."
Payne was recently crowned as Ireland's Young Women's Player of the Year and represented Ireland at this year's FIFA Women’s World Cup, alongside her fellow Everton teammate Courtney Brosnan.
Welcome to Everton, @_payneheather! 🇮🇪🔵 pic.twitter.com/iw56fgfcCC
— Everton Women (@EvertonWomen) August 25, 2023
The Irish star said that talks with Everton's manager, Brian Sorensen, allowed her to decide that Everton was the optimal choice for her next club. Ireland's Courtney Brosnan was also a big help in persuading her to sign for the blue half of Merseyside.
"Courtney and I engaged in meaningful conversations about Everton," Payne added. "Her endorsement of the club was resoundingly positive. She genuinely cherishes her time here, citing it as a fantastic platform for development. Given my current career phase, I'm thrilled to initiate this new chapter."
Meanwhile, Everton manager Sorensen also added that she believes that Everton will be a perfect location for Payne to develop her talents in the upcoming season.
"Heather's journey has been under my observation for some time," he disclosed on evertonfc.com.
"Our summer acquisitions were centered around players demonstrating high potential, coupled with the ability to compete immediately. Heather fits this criteria impeccably."
Everton starts their new WSL campaign at home against Brighton & Hove Albion on October 1
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