West Ham boss David Moyes has urged the public to forgive Kurt Zouma.

The defender was fined £250,000 by the Hammers for cruelty towards his pet cat.

Zouma missed the draw against Leicester yesterday, withdrawing late due to illness.

West Ham boss Moyes said: "He was ill before the game but wanted to play. He was sick during the night, he stayed away from the players and did not eat much.

"Once he got out he did not think it was possible. We told Issa Diop to be ready. It is a stomach bug, probably something he has eaten.

"I hope that we have changed a bit of how West Ham is perceived. West Ham have done great work down the East End of London, young supporters coming in and a lot of good things being done.

"We should not allow something like this to blight what has gone on. A mistake has been made and there are managers with players who have made mistakes. You want to feel there is forgiveness and an apology has been made."