UNDERFIRE West Ham defender Kurt Zouma scored an unfortunate own goal against Spurs in their clash on Sunday.
The former Chelsea defender, 27, deflected the ball into his own net from a Harry Kane cross after sliding in the box to stop Son Heung-min from scoring in the London derby.
Zouma’s bad luck came just days after he was charged by the RSPCA for a video showing him kicking his cat across a kitchen floor.
The clip has caused a public outcry since it was revealed by The Sun last month.
Last week, the RSPCA announced they had charged Zouma, who will now appear in court on a date that’s yet to be set.
Zouma’s brother Yoan, 23, has also been charged for allegedly filming the incident.
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The RSPCA said: “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.”
The Sun revealed footage of the Hammers ace kicking and slapping his Bengal cat in his £2million London mansion.
The defender’s club West Ham said today in a statement: “West Ham United is aware of the RSPCA statement in relation to its investigation involving Kurt Zouma.
“Kurt continues to co-operate fully, supported by the Club.”
It added: “It is our understanding that 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.”
Despite the furore surrounding him, Zouma has continued to play for the Hammers.
But he has faced a chorus of boos from away fans, as well as his own supporters.
West Ham manager David Moyes admitted that Zouma’s actions were “terrible” but he has stood by his player amid the animal cruelty storm.
He branded Zouma a “really good lad” and claimed the Premier League club is getting “absolute hell”.
The manager also revealed the defender is “hoping he is forgiven” after the horrific footage emerged.
Zouma was fined £250,000 for the attack and was forced to issue a grovelling apology in which he insisted his cats were both “perfectly fine and healthy”.
His cats have been seized by the RSPCA, while sponsor Adidas and Vitality UK have dropped Zouma from their promotions.
