MY ACCOUNT
West Ham boss David Moyes has defended his decision to start Kurt Zouma in the victory over Watford on Tuesday.
A disturbing video surfaced on Monday showing the defender kicking a cat across the kitchen floor at his home, while also slapping it while in a child’s arms.
Obtained by The Sun, the footage was filmed by Zouma’s brother Yoan, who can be heard laughing, and posted on Snapchat.
The France international released a statement earlier on Tuesday saying he was “deeply sorry”, while the incident was condemned by the club, RSPCA and other animal welfare groups.
Zouma nevertheless started the Hammers’ showdown with Watford at the London Stadium, playing the full 90 minutes in a 1-0 win that lifted Moyes’ team up to fourth in the Premier League.
While Moyes acknowledged the widespread disappointment and backlash to what he described as “a poor situation”, he insisted the matter is being dealt with internally.
“I am really disappointed, and the club have taken all the actions that they can do at the moment,” he told reporters in his post-match press conference.
“They are working on that behind the scenes. My job is to pick the best team for West Ham and Kurt was part of that team.
“I think the club would rather deal with it all in time, and they will let you know what the action is.
“I was really disappointed with what I saw and what I was told. But as I’ve said, it was my job to find the best team for West Ham. There will be people who will be disappointed at that and I understand that totally.
“I am someone who cares a lot about my dogs and horses and all the people I am connected with. I have spoken to him, and we will move on as much as we can.
“We wanted to get this game out of the way, and we understand nobody will be pleased about it. It is a poor situation.”
