RSPCA start process of prosecuting Kurt Zouma and brother Yoan over cat video

Kurt Zouma plays for Premier League side West Ham while Yoan Zouma is at National League side Dagenham & Redbridge

The RSPCA says it has started prosecution proceedings against Kurt Zouma and brother Yoan for their roles in filming Kurt kicking a cat.

Dagenham & Redbridge's Yoan, 23, filmed 27-year-old Kurt kicking and slapping one of his pets.

After the video appeared, the RSPCA removed two cats from Kurt's home and began liaising with Essex Police about the incident.

Kurt continued to play for West Ham despite the controversy.

An RSPCA spokesperson 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."

West Ham said they were "aware of the RSPCA statement in relation to its investigation".

The club added: "Kurt continues to co-operate fully, supported by the club. 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."

Following the incident, West Ham said they had fined the elder brother "the maximum amount possible" and the fee would be donated to animal welfare charities.

However, Hammers sponsor Experience Kissimmee said it would end its deal with the club and another sponsor, Vitality, suspended its deal with the club.

German sportswear firm Adidas also announced it had ended its deal with Kurt.

National League club Dagenham & Redbridge suspended Yoan and he has only recently returned to the squad.

A club statement said "any further suspension from the team would be detrimental to both the club and Yoan".

• From Notts County to North Korea: The tale of a trillion-dollar conman who sold a dream to the oldest club in the Football League

• The Sound of Peaky Blinders: Cillian Murphy shares tracks that have been integral to the feel of the programme