West Ham Manager, David Moyes has said that Kurt Zouma would be available for Sunday’s Premier League match at Leicester, despite the controversy over the defender’s cruel treatment of his cat.
National League club – Dagenham and Redbridge, have suspended Zouma’s brother Yoan, who was understood to have filmed the video.
But Moyes has refused to change his mind, and Zouma remains in contention to play for the Hammers at the King Power Stadium this weekend.
“Yes he’s available to play against Leicester,” Moyes told reporters on Friday.
“There are different views and opinions on should he be available. We, as a club, took that decision and I stand by that.”
West Ham strongly condemned Zouma’s actions earlier this week and fined him the “maximum amount possible” – reportedly being two weeks’ wages totalling around £250, 000 ($340, 000).
Zouma had issued an apology, but the 27-year-old lost his deal with sportswear giant, Adidas, over the disturbing video.
– ‘Terrible and diabolical’ –
“I don’t think the club could take more action or any quicker. West Ham has fined him the maximum wages. We all accept the actions are terrible and diabolical,” Moyes said.
“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.
“Like drink-driving offences, most people have to go to classes and the RSPCA is going to provide him with classes.
“We will do everything we can to make sure Kurt is looking into it, getting better, and understanding it.”
The RSPCA and Essex police are working together to investigate the incident, with the animal charity taking Zouma’s pet to check on its well-being.
Around 200, 000 people have signed an online petition calling for Zouma to be prosecuted.
Moyes has not been afraid to drop players for disciplinary reasons, having previously left Michail Antonio out, for being late for team meetings.
But on Zouma’s continued presence, the former Manchester United boss said, “He’s treated the exact same way as any other player.
“I’ve never had an incident like this. That’s part of being in this job.
“We’d rather we weren’t making news. West Ham has made really good news in the last two years.
“We’ve got a really good side. I’m sad the focus has been taken away from what is, at the moment, a really good season.”
AFP
