he Kurt Zouma scandal could well head into deeper and deeper waters with reports this morning that he could face up to four years in prison.

The player’s behaviour towards towards his pet cat has led to a legal complaint being filed in Paris where there is widespread shock at a video showing the West Ham player attacking his pet.

According to article 113-6 of the French Penal Code, a French citizen can be prosecuted for criminal acts carried out abroad.

Now, according to the Mail is has led lawyers working for the 30 Million Friends Foundation (La Fondation 30 Millions d’Amis), the largest animal rights group in France, contacting prosecutors.

A spokesman for the Foundation said: ‘We condemn this heinous act, have asked that the player be suspended from the France team, and filed a legal complaint against him.’

The Mail reports: ‘Tough new animal protection laws were introduced in France in 2021, meaning that the ‘mistreatment of animals’ is now punishable by up to four years in prison and a fine equivalent to £50,000.’

‘In the case of Kurt Zouma, the video appears to show aggravating facts, so he could be in very serious trouble,’ said another source close to the case.’

Senior French politicians have also condemned Zouma, who is from the eastern city of Lyon, and called him to be kicked out of France’s national team.

Muriel Fusi, spokesperson for the French Animal party, said: ‘Many people on social networks are outraged by the video. Many people claim that this football player can no longer wear the colours of France’.

And Marine Le Pen, the leader of the National Rally party and a presidential candidate, said: ‘It’s shameful. I still think that those who are capable of cruelty to animals are also capable of cruelty towards men. Violence is never trivial.’

Clarertandhugh says: Sadly – as we expected – this is not going away away quietly. The French position complicates a very difficult situation and we are unable to comment on the legal system in France. However, that politicians are becoming involved suggests that maybe we should not be overly worried as they usually do so in a bid to make a name for themselves on the back of a celebrity. There will never be any excuse or apology good enough to see such horrible behaviour condoned by anybody but four years prison? West Ham have confirmed to us this morning that any wage deduction will be given to charity and we would like to see the bloke working for an organisation of that nature. He needs to learn lessons and that maybe the best way of him doing so.