Zouma ‘available to play’ despite cat video fury
WEST Ham boss David Moyes has revealed defender Kurt Zouma will be available to play in tomorrow’s match at Leicester CIty, writes Isaac Seelochan.
The Frenchman has been heavily criticised after a video emerged on social media of him kicking and slapping his pet cat.
The RSPCA has taken Zouma’s two pet cats into its care while Adidas has ended its sponsorship of the player.
West Ham fined Zouma two weeks’ wages – the maximum amount possible – with the money being donated to animal welfare charities.
The 27-year-old was picked to start West Ham’s midweek game against Watford, a decision which sparked widespread criticism.
And Zouma now looks set to play against the Foxes at the King Power Stadium despite a tumultuous week for the centreback.
Speaking at yesterday’s pre-match press conference, Hammers boss David Moyes said: “Yes, he (Zouma) is available against Leicester and I stand by the decision to play him.
“It’s different views on should he be available or not. We as a club took the decision that we make him available, and I stand by that.
“I don’t think the club could take more action or any quicker.
“West Ham have fined him the maximum wages, we all accept the actions were terrible and diabolical.”
Asked how the defender was feeling, Moyes added: “He is very disappointed and incredibly remorseful and sometimes in life you need forgiveness and he is hoping for that.
“Many of us through our lives make mistakes.
“Like drink-driving offences most people have to go to classes and the RSPCA are going to provide him with classes.
“We will do everything we can to make sure Kurt is looking into it and getting better and understanding it.
“We are so disappointed – it is completely out of character from Kurt. He is a really good lad, we are going to get him some help and try to give him as much help as we can.”