Samuel Eto’o back for Cameroon ahead of decisive Nations Cup qualifier

Samuel Eto’o will be available for Cameroon selection when the Indomitable Lions take on tiny Cape Verde in a decisive African Nations Cup qualifier next month, the player said on Friday. “On the request of the highest authority of the Republic, I make myself available to the Indomitable Lions,” Eto’o said on his personal website after discussions with Prime Minister Philemon Yang, Minister of Sports Adoum Garoua, team manager Song Bahang and coach Jean-Paul Akon. “I am encouraged by my desire to serve my country with the same faith, ardour and determination of 15 years ago. I was received these past days by the state authorities to discuss the present situation of football in Cameroon, and specifically the national team.” The former Barcelona and Inter Milan striker, who now plays for Anzhi Makhachkala in Russia, skipped Cameroon’s shock 2-0 defeat by Cape Verde in the first leg of their final round qualifier earlier this month due to what he called “ the amateurish organisation around the national team”. Cameroon host the second leg in Yaounde on Oct. 13. The aggregate winner advances to the 2013 finals in South Africa from Jan. 19-Feb. 10. “I am convinced that together, putting aside other interests for the country, we are capable, with God's assistance, of giving Cameroon football the panache, and shine of old,” Eto’o added.