I didn’t even know what position I was going to play - Falcons star Tony Payne recounts World Cup experience

Super Falcons star, Toni Payne has said she was excited she was able to contribute to the success of the team in the just-ended World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

The star player made the comment as she revealed she was unsure of her playing position prior to the tournament.

The Super Falcons had a decent outing in the tournament, picking up a good result against Canada before the campaign ended in defeat to England.

Payne was regarded by many as the engine room of Nigeria’s attack.

She was a tireless worker in the middle of the park, and was involved in all of Nigeria’s goals. Payne, though a winger could have operated from her position, but Coach Waldrum decided to use her as a creative midfielder, says Soccernet.ng.

Payne has now revealed that she was not aware of Waldrum’s plans, but she enjoyed operating from the middle.

“Anyone who knows me knows that I have a soft spot for the number 10 position because I grew up playing it,” Payne told Eagles Tracker.

“It was when I got to Ajax I started playing on the wings and the forward position. I’ve always played the 10, so it felt good playing that position again.

“I didn’t even know what position Randy was going to play me at the World Cup, but I was prepared to play an important position. It was so fun to play as a ten, and I was so happy.”

Payne was not the only one on the team who had to change positions. Michelle Alozie also had to convert from a forward to being a defender, Ashleigh Plumptre had to switch from central defense to full-back, and some of the strikers had to operate as wingers too.

NBA