According to 'those in the know' Payne was pocketing 3k per week captaining Eastern Subs. Nice.
What the fudging fudge?!? Even if that was only during National League season that's getting towards A-League wages.
No wonder our top domestic footballers don't think it's worth while trying out for a professional gig - and no wonder half of them wouldn't be fussed if NZ's only (openly) pro club went under. But they shouldn't sneer at the Nix and those who do chase the dream.
But to forestall moderator action: let's move "Shamateurism in NZ Football" to its own thread.