Kurt Zouma drops out of West Ham lineup for Leicester game

Kurt Zouma was set to start West Ham's meeting with Leicester City on Sunday but pulled out of the starting lineup after feeling unwell during the warm-up.

The Frenchman's involvement in the game, just as it was in the recent 1-0 win over Watford, has been under real scrutiny in the aftermath of the video of Zouma kicking his cat, for which manager David Moyes has refused to suspend him.

Moyes has stood by Zouma, condemning his actions but insisting the defender's talent means he has to start matches, and he was named in the starting lineup for Sunday's game as a result.

However, during the warm-up, Zouma dropped out of the session and held a lengthy chat with the team physio, after which it was confirmed that he was 'feeling unwell' and no longer part of the matchday squad.

In his place, Issa Diop was promoted to the first XI, with goalkeeper Darren Randolph a late addition to the bench.

Zouma's actions, which brought on a hefty fine from West Ham, are under investigation from the RSPCA, who plan to offer animal welfare classes to the 27-year-old once their procedure is complete.