Frank Rijkaard has revealed that Cameroonian striker Samuel Eto'o refused to take part as a late substitute in the Spanish La Liga game against Racing Santander on Sunday. Eto'o has completed his recovery from a long-term knee injury that kept him out of action for the last four months but has only made a cameo appearance for five minutes against Osasuna last weekend. "He did not want to come on, I don't know why," Rijkaard was quoted as saying by Sky Sports on Monday. Rijkaard said that Eto'o did not even inform him directly about his decision and that he told Eusebio- a coaching staff member. "He did not tell me, he told Eusebio. "Am I annoyed? It is a shame because every minute he plays can be very important," the Dutch boss added.
Rijkaard Barcelona president Joan Laporta defended the player's decision. "Samuel has suffered for four months and to be happy he needs to play and score. We have to be on his side," said Laporta. Laporta also said he was sure that Rijkaard will be able to handle the situation. "Rijkaard, a master in these matters, will know how to iron things out and find the right solution." Eto'o was accompanied on the Barcelona bench by Argentine star Lionel Messi who also appeared after a long-term injury in the 68th minute of the game.