Tim Payne (footballer)

Timothy John Payne (born 10 January 1994) is a New Zealand professional footballer who plays as a defender for Wellington Phoenix in the A-League and for the New Zealand national team.

A noted utility player, Payne has played almost every outfield position during his career.

Auckland City and Waitakere United
Born in Auckland, Payne attended Sacred Heart College and started his youth career with ASB Premiership club Auckland City FC before switching to play for rivals Waitakere United. Payne played a major role in Waitakere United's success in the ASB National Youth League in 2010.

Blackburn Rovers
After impressing at the 2011 FIFA U-17 World Cup Payne trialed with Premier League side Blackburn Rovers and then spent several months training at the club. Days after celebrating his 18th birthday Payne signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with Rovers in January 2012. Due to work permit issues that prevented him from playing for Rovers, he was released at the end of his contract.

Wellington Phoenix
In July 2019, Payne signed a one-year contract with A-League side Wellington Phoenix. On 3 January 2020, it was announced that Payne had signed a two-year contract extension with the Phoenix. On 10 June, Payne pleaded guilty to a drink-driving charge after a shirtless late-night joy ride in a golf cart in Sydney while the team was supposed to be in self-isolation. He was subsequently ordered by the court to pay a AUS$700 fine.

International career
Payne represented New Zealand at Under-17 level. He played 90 minutes in each of his sides four matches at the 2011 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Mexico.

In May 2012 Payne received a call-up from Ricki Herbert to the senior national team alongside fellow youngster and U-17 teammate Cameron Howieson. He made his first appearance in a 1–0 win against Honduras on 26 May 2012, coming on as a substitute for Leo Bertos and playing the final 15 minutes of the match. He subsequently made an appearance off the bench in the OFC Nations Cup 2012. Payne was named in New Zealand's team for the 2012 Olympics.

Career statistics

 * Scores and results list New Zealand's goal tally first, score column indicates score after each Payne goal.

Honours

 * New Zealand
 * OFC Nations Cup: 2024


 * Individual
 * PFA A-League Team of the Season: 2023–24
 * A-Leagues All Star: 2024