I would've seriously looked at Payne. He's an upgrade on all those back ups and if he'd strengthen the squad then why wouldn't you look at him? Especially as a non-import.
If it pushes Hicks and Rufer further down pecking order then that's a great result - they're still around to develop but I think in a squad of 23 you can carry players who won't get much game time. Look at that guy who scored for Roar against us. I think that was the only game he played all season.
I do not understand the mentality of "we've got enough players in that position or age group". If he's better than your other options get amongst and strengthen the squad. The others then have to get better or more versatile.
Of course if he pulls out three amazing signings then fair play to him but until then I sceptical it's the right call.
Because then we suffer for depth in other areas of the pitch. If you have over a quarter of your squad on 1-2 position/s on the field, then you will lack in other positions.
He may be better than hicks etc. But the fact is we have them on the books, and we can't release them without giving up cap space (which also weakens us)