Eto'o returns to Cameroon fold

Samuel Eto'o has been persuaded to resume playing for Cameroon following a meeting with Prime Minister Philemon Yang. Eto'o was banned by the Cameroon Football Federation last November after leading a players' strike over late payment of bonuses and appearance fees. Having served the suspension, the 31-year-old then refused to play in last month's 2-0 CAF Africa Cup of Nations qualifier first-leg defeat by Cape Verde in protest against the national team set-up. However, following discussions with Prime Minister Yang, Minister of Sports Adoum Garoua, team manager Song Bahang and coach Jean Paul Akon, he has decided to make a comeback. "On the request of the highest authority of the Republic, I make myself available to the Indomitable Lions," Eto'o said on his website. "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. "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, who has scored 53 goals in 109 caps, will face Cape Verde in the second leg on 14 October. From : Fifa