Moyes says Zouma available for West Ham selection amid cat video outcry

Kurt Zouma remains available for selection for West Ham’s Premier League trip to Leicester on Sunday, David Moyes has confirmed.

There have been calls for Moyes to drop the French defender over the video of Zouma kicking and slapping one of his cats.

West Ham’s manager caused controversy by picking Zouma to face Watford on Tuesday, barely 24 hours after the footage was released and amid a huge public outcry.

The National League club Dagenham and Redbridge have suspended Zouma’s brother Yoan, who is understood to have filmed the video, while the RSPCA investigates the incident.

But Moyes said: “Yes he’s available to play against Leicester. There are different views and opinions on should he be available. We as a club took that decision and I stand by that.”

Zouma has been fined the maximum two weeks’ wages, which will go to animal welfare groups.

Moyes said: “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 are terrible and diabolical.

“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 trying to give him as much help as we can.

“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.”

Moyes has not been afraid to drop players for disciplinary reasons, having previously left out Michail Antonio for being late for team meetings. But he said: “He’s [Zouma] treated the exact same way as any other player.”