West Ham’s Zouma apologises for abusing cat in shocking online video

(FILES) In this file photo taken on November 11, 2021, France’s defender Kurt Zouma arrive for a training session in Clairefontaine-en-Yvelines, as part of the team’s preparation for the upcoming 2022 World Cup qualifying matches. – West Ham and France defender Kurt Zouma has apologised after a disturbing video surfaced of him kicking and slapping a cat, with the Premier League club publicly condemning the footage. Zouma is seen in the clip dropping, kicking and slapping the animal, while laughter can be heard in the background. West Ham on February 7, 2022 condemned Zouma’s actions in a strongly worded statement following the publication of the clip online. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP)

West Ham and France defender Kurt Zouma has apologised after a disturbing video surfaced of him kicking and slapping a cat, with the Premier League club publicly condemning the footage.

Zouma is seen in the clip dropping, kicking and slapping the animal, while laughter can be heard in the background.

The 27-year-old then chases the cat, before throwing a pair of shoes at it and slapping its head.

West Ham condemned Zouma’s actions in a strongly worded statement following the publication of the clip online.

“West Ham United unreservedly condemns the actions of our player, Kurt Zouma, in the video that has circulated,” the club said in a statement.

“We have spoken to Kurt and will be dealing with the matter internally, but we would like to make it clear that we in no way condone cruelty towards animals.”

The France international, who joined West Ham from Chelsea in August 2021, has also released a statement expressing his regret.

“I want to apologise for my actions,” he said. “There are no excuses for my behaviour, which I sincerely regret.

“I also