Kurt Zouma: Pundit fumes at West Ham and Moyes after ‘disgusting’ new development
Paddy Kenny has blasted David Moyes for selecting Kurt Zouma for West Ham after he was filmed abusing his cat.
The former Leeds United stopper, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, can’t believe the defender remains available for selection.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of Sunday’s (13 February) game against Leicester, Moyes confirmed Zouma remains available.
As quoted by BBC Sport (11 February), Moyes admitted Zouma’s actions were “diabolical” but hailed West Ham’s handling of the situation.
The Frenchman started on Tuesday (8 February) as West Ham beat Watford 1-0.
Kenny called that decision a “disgrace” and doesn’t agree with Moyes’ excuses.
“I thought it was a disgrace that he played the other night and that he could play today after what Moyes has said,” Kenny told Football Insider correspondent Ewan Kingsbury.
“Especially after it happened just a few days before. I’m not having the whole ‘football side’ argument.
“This bloke has done something disgusting that the whole country and probably the whole world has seen.
“Whether he thinks he should have played or not, I disagree. The boy should not have played.
“I think Moyes has stuck him in there to put him in the firing line and maybe hope it gets brushed under the carpet.
“But for me, it 100% sends the wrong message.”
Tourism firm Experience Kissimmee have ended a partnership with the Irons due to Zouma’s actions, while insurance company Vitality has suspended theirs.
Analysis from The Telegraph on Thursday (10 February) has found that the commercial damage caused will run into seven figures.
In other news, West Ham opening new contract talks with Tomas Soucek.