Kurt Zouma in starting XI for West Ham vs Watford despite horrific cat attack

West Ham have surprisingly opted to start disgraced centre-back Kurt Zouma for the Hammers' Premier League clash with Watford on Tuesday.

The news comes after footage emerged online on Monday evening of Zouma kicking and abusing his cats at home.

West Ham had 'unreservedly' condemned Zouma's disgraceful actions, and were expected to drop the defender for the game against Watford.

However, in a shocking turn of events, Zouma has been named, not even just in the squad, but in the starting XI for the match.

Earlier on Tuesday Surrey Police confirmed that they have launched an enquiry into Zouma's abuse of the animals, and they plan to work alongside the RSPCA - who also condemned the defender's actions - during said investigation:

"Enquiries are underway after we received an allegation earlier today (February 8), in relation to an animal being abused at an address in north Surrey.

“The allegations were received after a video emerged over the weekend showing a cat being ill-treated.

"We are currently liaising with the RSPCA with a view to carrying out a joint investigation into the matter. Enquiries remain ongoing and we will provide further updates in due course."