West Ham defender Kurt Zouma has spoken about his animal cruelty charge for the first time.

He pleaded guilty to two counts of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal after a disturbing video emerged in February involving a pet cat.

Zouma briefly apologised after the video's release, but speaking openly for the first time since his sentencing in June, he said: “It's been a difficult spell for me and my family.

“Obviously, I have done something very bad and I apologise again for what I've done. I know it was very tough for people to watch and to see that and obviously I feel very, very sorry.

“I have great remorse about it and now I'm trying to move on with my family and looking ahead. I learned from it, that's the most important thing, I would say.

“Obviously, I had support from many, many people around me who helped me stay focused on football and I try to stay happy."

In his short statement back in February, Zouma explained: "Our two cats are perfectly fine and healthy. This behaviour was an isolated incident that will not happen again."

Asked how important the club's support has been, Zouma added: “They have been unbelievable with me, the support that I received from my teammates, from the staff.

“Even from the fans, they have been unreal, and they helped me stay focused on the game, to try to do my best on the pitch all the time and.

“I can't thank them enough for what they've done. This club is like my family."