Hammers release official Zouma statement

West Ham have confirmed that Kurt Zouma will miss this week’s Europa League quarter-final second leg against Lyon.

The France international has been in a protective boot since the loss to Brentford at the weekend.

And the Irons have now confirmed that he is not going to recover in time for the encounter with the Ligue 1 club.

He is set to remain in London for further tests on his ankle injury and will subsequently be unavailable for selection in the second leg.

The official statement reads: “West Ham United can confirm that Kurt Zouma will miss Thursday’s UEFA Europa League quarter-final second leg tie against Olympique Lyonnais.

“The France international defender is to remain in London for further tests and examination on the ankle injury he suffered during Sunday’s Premier League match at Brentford.

“Everyone at West Ham United would like to wish Kurt a speedy recovery.”

The tie is finely poised after the first leg ended in a 1-1 draw.

Aaron Cresswell is suspended for the second leg after his controversial sending off at the London Stadium, meaning it is likely that Issa Diop will replace Zouma and Arthur Masuaku will play at left-back.

In addition to that, midfielder Declan Rice will be suspended for the semi-final, should the Hammers get there, if he is booked in the second leg.