Former Everton defender Kurt Zouma will reportedly not face a Metropolitan Police investigation after a video circulated of him kicking his cat.
Zouma spent the 2018/19 season on loan with the Blues from Chelsea, making 36 appearances for the club.
A video has emerged of the 27-year-old, who moved to West Ham in the summer, appearing to kick his cat across the kitchen floor before later slapping the pet in the face.
It has been claimed by Sky News that Zouma’s brother, Yoan, filmed the incident on Snapchat inside the defender’s home before posting it on Sunday afternoon.
The Met Police have decided not to investigate the video, with Zouma facing no formal charges.
Zouma issued a statement apologising for his actions, where he expresses his remorse for the incident.
"I also want to say how deeply sorry I am to anyone who was upset by the video," said Zouma.
"I would like to assure everyone that our two cats are perfectly fine and healthy.
"They are loved and cherished by our entire family, and this behaviour was an isolated incident that will not happen again."
West Ham have released a statement where they say they are aware of the video that has circulated, and “condemn” the actions of Zouma.
"West Ham United unreservedly condemns the actions of our player, Kurt Zouma, in the video that has circulated,” the statement read.
"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."
Animal welfare charity the RSPCA also condemned Zouma's actions and expressed the importance of people reporting abuse to animals.
"This is a very upsetting video. It's never acceptable to kick, hit or slap an animal, for punishment or otherwise," an RSPCA spokesperson said.
"We are so grateful to people who report suspected animal suffering to us and we would like to reassure people we will always look into and, if necessary, investigate any complaints made to us about animal welfare."
