Lionel Messi has added his voice to the growing calls for Samuel Eto'o to stay at Barcelona.
Argentinean striker praises colleague
Lionel Messi has added his voice to the growing calls for Samuel Eto'o to stay at Barcelona.
The Argentinean believes the Cameroonian striker offers special qualities to the side and does not want him to be sold.
His comments came after combining superbly with Eto'o in Barcelona's convincing 5-1 win against Dundee United on Saturday.
Messi netted a hat-trick in the game, while Eto'o also got his name on the scoresheet.
No other
Speaking afterwards, Messi said: "I hope that Eto'o does not go. There is no other centre-forward like him in the world."
Eto'o's future with the Catalans appeared to be numbered after the club's sporting director Txiki Begiristain and coach Pep Guardiola both stated this summer that he was surplus to requirements.
But the Cameroon international has maintained his position that he wants to stay and his performances in pre-season could yet earn him a reprieve.
Messi's comments come after Xavi Hernandez also praised the attitude and ability of Eto'o.
Make difference
"He is a player that can make the difference. He has always played at a high level, even after suffering his injuries," he explained.
"Eto'o is an important player for us and an exemplary professional, but it depends on him and the club and what they both want to happen."
