Kurt Zouma has been named West Ham’s new captain, succeeding Declan Rice, following a strong start to the season.
West Ham manager David Moyes has stated that Kurt Zouma would retain the captain’s armband this season.
Following Declan Rice’s £105 million departure to Arsenal, Zouma was given the captain’s armband at the start of the season.
There has been speculation over who might take on the position on a permanent basis, with the centre-back being the overwhelming choice.
And Moyes has now confirmed the position in a press conference on Friday, ahead of West Ham’s Saturday afternoon encounter against Manchester City.
“Kurt will continue as captain,” the Scotsman added.
Kurt Zouma has been named West Ham’s new captain, succeeding Declan Rice, following a strong start to the season.
“He’s done a good job; we’ve won three and drawn one of the first four games, so he’ll keep the job.”
In February 2022, Zouma was facing an uncertain future at the London Stadium after being caught on camera kicking a cat around his kitchen.
It resulted in the Hammers star being sentenced to 180 hours of community service and a five-year ban from owning cats.
Many urged Moyes to punish Zouma, but he stood by his player, even defying requests to dismiss him and starting him in the next game.
And now he’s made his biggest bet by handing him the West Ham armband.
Zouma spoke out about the event in November and maintained he was sorry.
“It’s been a difficult spell for me and my family,” he explained. I’ve done something really wrong, and I apologize once more.
“I know it was difficult for people to watch and see that, and I sincerely apologize.”
“I feel terrible about it, and now I’m trying to move on with my family and look ahead.” It taught me a lesson.
“I had a lot of people around me who helped me stay focused on football and try to be happy.”
Zouma has been with West Ham since 2021 after signing from Chelsea for £30million having just won the Champions League.
The 28-year-old, who started in last term’s Europa Conference League final victory over Fiorentina, has made 68 appearances for the Hammers in all competitions.
