Super Falcons and Everton Women midfielder Toni Payne has expressed her delight after being nominated for the Barclays Women’s Super League (WSL) February Player of the Month Award.
The 29-year-old midfielder joined Everton from Sevilla last summer and, after a challenging start in England, has begun to find her rhythm with the Merseyside club.
Everton currently sits 8th in the WSL, but Payne’s performances in February stood out as she provided three assists to earn a nomination for the Player of the Month award. She is shortlisted alongside Arsenal’s Mariona Caldentey and Frida Maanum, fellow Everton teammate Kelly Gago, and Manchester United’s Elisabeth Terland.
Payne in action for Everton. Photo credit Imago
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Speaking about her nomination, Payne shared her excitement about adapting to the league and her upcoming challenge against Arsenal.
“It definitely feels good. You know, it’s my first time in the league and the WSL. I definitely knew it was going to be a struggle in the beginning, but I think I’m finally catching my stride here.
“I’m happy. I’m excited to face Arsenal [on Friday]. You know, they’re a great team. They’ve got amazing players, but I think we’re getting our confidence here and there, especially with the performance we put up against Chelsea.
“I think we can only go up, and I just hope that we’re ready for it and, hopefully, get something out of it,” Payne said in an interview with Everton’s official website.
Payne also played a crucial role for Nigeria at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, featuring in all three group-stage matches. Despite her individual brilliance, Randy Waldrum’s Super Falcons were unable to secure a win in France.
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Everton sits 10 points above the relegation zone, ensuring relative safety in the WSL. However, they are out of contention for European qualification, trailing Arsenal by 17 points.
