Eto'o inspired Diarra's move

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Lassana Diarra, the former Real Madrid midfielder who recently signed with Russian side Anzhi Makhachkala says that he accepted the switch primarily because it would give him a chance to play next to Cameroonian legend Samuel Eto’o.

This is contrary to popular opinion that his move was inspired by a bigger pay-check.

The 27-year-old penned a four-year contract with the Dagestan-based side, putting aside speculation that he could sign to AC Milan or Fernabahce.

-Overall, I would not talk about the clubs that were interested in me. Anzhi were interested more than the others, but the most important thing for me is that Samuel Eto'o is here.

-He's like a big brother to me. Why can't we succeed together?

Money talk

Diarra also came out strongly to rubbish claims that he was in Russia for the money.

-During my career I have played for some very prestigious European teams and, trust me, I've won enough titles and been paid enough. I did not come here for the money.

-Those who believe that should come to the games, analyse my performances and then tell me why they think I came to Anzhi.

Anzhi, who are currently ranked fourth in the Russian Premier League, play their home matches at the Dynamo Stadium, in Makhchkala.