Rio Ferdinand: Despite being remorseful, Zouma needs punishment

Kurt Zouma has expressed regret over controversial footage showing him beating his pet cat, but

Rio Ferdinand

believes the West Ham defender still ought to be penalized. 

Since the video was published before West Ham's match against Watford earlier this month, the disturbing clip of Zouma smacking and kicking the animal has stirred uproar. 

The Hammers have denounced the Frenchman's behavior and begun an inquiry, despite criticisms of their decision to keep the 27-year-old on the team. 

Speaking to 

 about the incident, former Hammers defender Ferdinand said:

“Firstly, I think Kurt Zouma is remorseful, which is important when you make this big play with the situation.

“I think West Ham, with hindsight, they didn't expect the uproar but they would look back and think ‘maybe we should have taken him out of the firing line against Watford’. What has happened since then, they have been scrutinised.

“He needs punishment. The [animal charity] RSPCA are now investigating the case. I think a punishment will come and he will think 'I need to take that punishment that comes my way'."

Ferdinand also applauded West Ham captain

Mark Noble

for tackling the problem with the rest of the team to ensure that there was no underlying resentment that may harm the team's morale.

“We hear that Mark Noble has called a captains' meeting as well. You need to know where your squad are at and it's good to find out who's not happy,” added Ferdinand.

“Don't forget West Ham are in a position to get into Europe and the

even.

“They need to be mindful without glossing over the issue. I think Mark Noble as done an admirable job in that.”

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