Everton have completed the signing of Samuel Eto’o on a free transfer, and Roberto Martinez feels is could be a shrewd piece of business.
The legendary Cameroon international had his first taste of Premier League football last season, when he spent the campaign at Chelsea. Eto’o made a total of 35 appearances in all competitions for the Blues and scored 12 goals, but his relationship with Jose Mourinho is thought to have soured towards the end of his time in the capital.
Upon his release from Stamford Bridge the 33-year-old had been linked with a return to England, with Arsenal and Liverpool both credited with an interest. And whilst the striker has pitched up on Merseyside, it is in the blue half of the city after Toffees boss Martinez was convinced that he was worthy of a two-year contract at Goodison Park.
“I was impressed about the hunger he still has,” said the Spaniard on Tuesday evening. “For someone who has achieved nearly everything, he still has the desire he had at 15 when he went to Spain and showed what he could do. For many reasons he has got a point to prove. We are very excited and I think Everton is the perfect home for him.”
Eto’o could prove to be a good mentor for £28million Romelu Lukaku who, whilst in his sixth season as a first team professional, is still only 21-years-old so has plenty to learn. The former Barcelona and Internazionale ace is looking forward to linking up with the Belgian and his new team-mates, having been impressed with Everton’s style last season.
“I am very happy to be here, I am looking forward greatly to putting on the blue shirt of Everton,” said Eto’o. “I have been very impressed by the style of play Everton adopt. I could see straight away that at this club I will have the opportunity to play football. I had the chance to speak with the manager over the last few days. I was impressed with his enthusiasm but also by the knowledge of football that Roberto Martinez carries, his vision of football and how he reads football. I still think I can learn a great deal from him here.”
Eto’o could now make his debut for the Toffees on Saturday evening when, as fate would have it, they welcome his former club Chelsea to Goodison Park.
Everton fans, are you happy with the signing of Eto’o? Do you think he could help you finish in the top four this season? Have your say by joining in the discussion below!
