Samuel Eto’o thanks Mourinho for Premier League chance

Samuel Eto’o says that he wants to thanks José Mourinho for bringing the Everton striker to the Premier League.

The 33-year-old Cameroon international completed his free transfer to Goodison Park on Tuesday night, penning a two-year deal with the Toffees.

Eto’o scored nine goals in 21 Premier League appearances for the Blues last season, but fell out with Mourinho after the Chelsea manager was caught on camera joking about the veteran striker’s age in March.

Asked about Mourinho at his unveiling at Finch Farm on Wednesday morning, Eto’o opted against criticising Mourinho.

“The only thing to say about José Mourinho is to thank him. It’s down to José Mourinho that I had the opportunity to integrate into the Premier League,” said Eto’o, who could face former club Chelsea at Goodison Park on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Everton manager Roberto Martinez hailed Eto’o as a “perfect fit” for his Toffees side, who drew 2-2 with Arsenal in the Premier League on Saturday.

“In every aspect he is the perfect fit for the team and squad. His mental focus was so impressive last season I knew for a fact that he was exactly what we needed for the squad,” Martinez said.

“I would have liked him to have 10 or 11 sessions before putting him in a competitive environment, but I quickly learned I was wasting my time.

“He wants to be helpful to the team and be involved.”