Barcelona's Eto'o: Messi deserves same respect as Ronaldo

Barcelona striker Sammy Eto'o says Lionel Messi deserves more respect from Spanish rivals.

Citing Real Madrid striker Ronaldo's Spanish citizenship celebrations this week, Eto'o declared: "I am happy that Ronaldo has been nationalised as Spanish; it seems to me that it is positive for Madrid, because it will give them one more foreign place."

"But, since we are on this subject, I would like you to remember that Messi is Spanish just as Ronaldo is and, nevertheless, some continue doubting his legality to play."

"For that reason, I request that they let him prepare for games peacefully."