Republic of Ireland international Heather Payne has signed a contract to join WSL side Everton, on a two-year deal. Payne had spent the past four years in the United States, playing for Florida State Seminoles.
Payne, 23, recently featured in Ireland’s World Cup squad, in which she started two of the three group stage games. Unfortunately, an injury ruled Payne out of Ireland’s clash with Olympic Champions Canada.
It is her second time playing in the English Women’s Super League, having played for Bristol City in 2019, before leaving for college in the US 
“I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining Everton,” Payne said to Evertontv.
“This club boasts an impressive history of nurturing talent. I’ve always harboured the desire to play in England, and I genuinely believe that it hosts one of the most competitive leagues globally.”
Republic of Ireland international Heather Payne has signed for the Club on a two-year contract until the end of June 2025. ✍️
— Everton Women (@EvertonWomen) August 25, 2023
Payne was recently named as Ireland Young Women’s Player of the Year, and when asked about her move to Everton admitted that she has discusses the move with Everton and Ireland goalkeeper Courtney Brosnan.
“I got the chance to sit down with Courtney and have a couple of conversations about Everton,” said Payne, as Everton finished sixth last season.
“She only had good things to say about the club. She loves it here. It’s a great place to develop, which is where I’m at in my career right now so I’m really excited to get started.
“I think this club can achieve great things. Finishing top six last season, I’m sure they’re hoping to do the same again this year, if not better. I’m just really looking forward to getting out there, be part of this team and provide as much as I can.”
“Heather is a player I have been tracking for a while,” added Everton manager Brian Sorensen.