Cameroon striker Samuel Eto'o

BBC

Cameroon striker Samuel Eto'o has announced he has ended his self-imposed international exile.

Eto'o missed last month's 2-0 loss to Cape Verde in their 2013 African Cup of Nations qualifier first leg in protest against the national team set-up.

But the 31-year-old has been persuaded by Cameroon's government to return, reports the BBC.

"On the request of the highest authority of the Republic, I make myself available to the Indomitable Lions," Eto'o said on his website.

"I am encouraged by my desire to serve my country with the same faith, ardour and determination of 15 years ago."

Eto'o's decision comes after he met with Cameroon's Prime Minister Philemon Yang, Minister of Sports Adoum Garoua and the Cameroon team manager, Song Bahang and coach Jean Paul Akon.

"I was received these past days by the state authorities to discuss the present situation of football in Cameroon, and specifically the national team," added Eto'o, who has won 109 caps for Cameroon and scored 53 goals.

"I am convinced that together, putting aside other interests for the country, we are capable, with God's assistance, of giving Cameroon football the panache, and shine of old."

Eto'o first task will be to help the Indomitable Lions try to overturn their two-goal deficit when they host Cape Verde on October 14.

At stake is a place at next year's tournament in South Africa, and Cameroon are desperate to qualify having missed out on the 2012 finals.