Eto'o is a key player for Spanish giants Barcelona

Cameroon striker Samuel Eto'o has called for a rethink on the timing of the continent's premier sports event - the Africa Cup of Nations.

Several Europe-based Africans will not be available for their clubs for several weeks as next year's tournament takes place in Ghana in January and February.

Eto'o, who plays for Spanish giants Barcelona believes the tournament could be wrecked as a spectacle because it is played at the height of the European season.

The 26-year-old believes African footballers should play for their countries during the tournament but the competition's organisers should find a better date.

"This is a huge problem," the Cameroon ace told the Sun.

"I don't think the problem is between the national team and the club, but rather it belongs to the people who plan the calendar.

"They have to make it smoother and plan it in such a way that both parties are satisfied.

"I feel though that every match is important, even if it is a friendly, and you have to always be focused on winning.

"Playing for my national team is hugely important to me, in both competitive and friendly matches.

"Top-level football is a game that basically consists of the best players playing.

"In other words, the best should always be on the pitch to play an important role in the team.

"Football is all about tough competition, which is why the best have to play.