Kurt Zouma is set to be available for West Ham's Europa League last-16 second leg despite the RSPCA confirming he is set to face charges. The defender and his brother Yoan Zouma could face a day in court following the video of Kurt Zouma slapping and kicking his pet cat, confirmed the RSPCA.
Despite the RSPCA's announcement on Wednesday afternoon the defender will continue to be available for selection and is likely to start for the Hammers against Sevilla in Thursday evening's crunch encounter. West Ham have played Kurt Zouma throughout the investigation, in contrast to Dagenham and Redbridge's decision to suspend Yoan Zouma until the completion of the RSPCA's work.
Kurt Zouma was fined £250,000 by West Ham for his actions and lost a number of personal sponsors including his boot manufacturer Adidas, whilst the club saw a number of their partners sever ties following what was perceived to be a soft reaction to the video.
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The Hammers reacted to the news of Kurt Zouma's impending charges with a club statement, which read: "Kurt continues to co-operate fully, supported by the club. Our understanding is Kurt’s cats have been checked by a vet, are in good health and have suffered no physical injuries. For legal reasons, neither Kurt or the Club will be making any further comment at this time."
An RSPCA statement read: "Following a full and thorough investigation, we have started the process of bringing a prosecution against Kurt Zouma and Yoan Zouma under the Animal Welfare Act.
"The two cats continue to be cared for by the RSPCA. We will be in a position to release more information once a court date is confirmed."
