Plane with banner 'Cats' Lives Matter' flown over Anfield during Liverpool vs West Ham

A plane carrying the message 'Cats' Lives Matter' was flown over Anfield during Liverpool's clash with West Ham on Saturday night.

Last month, Hammers defender Kurt Zouma was in the news for a video that went viral of him abusing his pet cat. The club released an official statement condemning the defender's actions, but Kouma was handed a start against Watford just hours later - a decision that was criticised by many.

Zouma has started numerous games since but has been mocked by away fans who held up bright orange inflatable cats throughout the game.

And now, three weeks after the incident, a plane was flown over Anfield with the message 'CATS LIVES MATTER' while Zouma was up against Jurgen Klopp's side.

Zouma issued an apology following the incident and was fined £250,000 by West Ham.

An RSPCA spokesperson said of Zouma's actions: “This is a very upsetting video. It’s never acceptable to kick, hit or slap an animal, for punishment or otherwise.

“We are so grateful to people who report suspected animal suffering to us and we would like to reassure people we will always look into and, if necessary, investigate any complaints made to us about animal welfare.”