Zouma, West Ham defender, remained embroiled in scandal after a shocking video of him attacking his cat surfaced on social media
By Kehinde Okeowo
West Ham United stayed fifth in the Premier League table after Craig Dawson grabbed a last minute equaliser against Leicester City in Sunday’s clash at the King Power stadium.
Kurt Zouma was withdrawn from West Ham’s lineup for the game and a lot of pundits have speculated Moyes removed the embattled defender to protect him from fans’ possible backlash over his decision to kick his cat.
The defender was seen to have slapped and kicked the animal on video that went viral before Tuesday’s match with Watford, with Moyes still starting the French defender in that game amid widespread furore.
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Zouma was again named in the starting XI for the encounter against the Hammers on Sunday, only to be removed at short notice, West Ham thereafter issued a short statement on social media less than 15 minutes before kick-off.
“Issa Diop will replace Kurt Zouma in the starting XI, as he is unwell,” West Ham wrote. “Darren Randolph is added to the substitutes’ bench.” the statement added.
After the game ended in a 2-2 draw, Moyes while talking to Sky Sports dispelled the rumour that Kurt Zouma was substituted for the clash against Leicester City to prevent backlash from fans.
He said the defender wanted to play despite being ill a night before the game but felt “unwell” during the warm-up, and was replaced by the technical crew.
“[Zouma] was ill before the game, wanted to play, we wanted him to play as well. He was sick during the night, he stayed away from the players and did not eat much.
“Once he got out [for warm-ups] he did not think it was possible. We told Issa Diop to be ready. It is a stomach bug, probably something he has eaten.” Moyes said.
