Guardiola says Eto'o has impressed him in pre-season

Cameroon striker Samuel Eto'o will be staying at Barcelona, according to the club's coach Pep Guardiola.

Guardiola told the club's website that Eto'o would stay at the Camp Nou for another season.

That is a reversal of his previous stance, because when he took over Guardiola was keen for Eto'o to leave.

But speaking ahead of a Champions League qualifier against Wisla Krakow, Guardiola announced his change of heart.

"When I was unveiled I said I was not counting on him but I also said we would treat him as any other player," he said.

"During the past two, three weeks, the past month that we have been together I have been very pleased with his performance. I only have words of praise."

Eto'o had been linked with a number of high profile clubs, including Inter, AC Milan and Arsenal.

Deco and Ronaldinho, who were also perceived by Guardiola to be surplus to requirements, have both left the club.

But Eto'o could not find a new side, and has since worked very hard in the pre-season.