Football / World Cup USA '94: Cameroon keeper Bell bids farewell

JOSEPH-ANTOINE BELL, Cameroon's goalkeeper, had to wait 12 years to make his World Cup debut but, after two games, he has had enough, writes Rupert Metcalf.

Bell, who was in his country's squad for the 1982 and 1990 tournaments without being selected, has quit the team. 'I do not want to play,' Bell said, claiming that Cameroon officials, whom he declined to identify, had asked the coach, Henri Michel, not to select him.

Michel refused their demands but the 39-year-old Bell said it would be better for the team if he no longer played. 'There are too many people interfering who have nothing to do with the team,' Bell added. 'I decided these people might give the team some peace if I did not play any more.'

Martin Dahlin, the Swedish striker with three goals so far at the World Cup, said yesterday that he has had transfer talks with Everton. 'I have plans. I have received a concrete offer,' he said. Bordeaux are also interested.

Roberto Baggio has been appointed captain of Italy in place of Franco Baresi, whose World Cup is over following knee surgery.