David Moyes announces new West Ham captain to replace Arsenal star Declan Rice

Zouma had been given the captain's armband at the start of the season following Declan Rice's £105million move to Arsenal.

There had been question marks over who would resume the role permanently with the centre-back the heavy favourite to take it on.

And Moyes has now confirmed the position in a press conference on Friday before West Ham's match against Manchester City on Saturday afternoon.

The Scotsman said: "Kurt will continue as captain.

"He's done a good job, we've won three and drawn one of the opening four games, so he will continue in the role."

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In February 2022, Zouma was facing an uncertain future at the London Stadium having caused outrage across the country after being filmed kicking a cat around his kitchen.

It led to the Hammers star being sentenced to 180 hours of community service and banned from keeping cats for five years.

Many had called for Moyes to make an example of Zouma, but he stuck by his player, even resisting calls to drop him and started him in the next match.

And he has now given him his biggest show of faith by presenting him with the West Ham armband.

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Zouma spoke out on the incident last November and insisted he was remorseful.

He said: "It's been a difficult spell for me and my family. I have done something very bad and I apologise again for what I've done.

"I know it was very tough for people to watch and to see that and obviously I feel very, very sorry.

"I have great remorse about it and now I'm trying to move on with my family and looking ahead. I learned from it.

"I had support from many, many people around me who helped me stay focused on football and I try to stay 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.