Samuel Eto'o shunned Italian interest to join Everton

Samuel Eto'o has revealed that he turned down the chance to return to Italy in order to pen a two-year deal at Everton.

Having dropped into the free agent pool at the end of his Chelsea contract, Eto’o had no shortage of options to consider over the summer.

Clubs from across the globe were reported to be preparing offers for the vastly-experienced Cameroon striker.

"I met Roberto and we had the same passion for football and for how the game should be played, and that’s why I took the decision."

Some of those plotting an approach were based in Serie A, with it hoped that Eto’o could be lured back to a division in which he has enjoyed previous success.

The 33-year-old spent two years with Inter Milan between 2009 and 2011, helping them to an historic Treble in 2009/10 under the guidance of Jose Mourinho.

Eto’o has, however, opted to shun a second spell in the Italian top flight in favour of forming part of Roberto Martinez’s ambitious project at Goodison Park. He said at his official Everton unveiling: “I met certain clubs in Italy, who offered me a chance to return to Serie A.

Eto'o talks about his move to Everton “But at this stage, towards the end of my career, the most important thing was to find a club that would allow me to do what I wanted most, which was to play football and let me share my experience.

“I met Roberto and we had the same passion for football and for how the game should be played, and that’s why I took the decision.”

Eto’o has also announced his international retirement after 17 years, four World Cups and 115 caps for his country.

He posted on his official Instagram page: "I inform you that I am ending my international career.

"Thank you to all Africa, and to all my fans for your unconditional support."