David Moyes provides Kurt Zouma update and makes Nayef Aguerd hint ahead of Leeds United clash

West Ham United manager David Moyes has confirmed that centre-back Kurt Zouma will be absent for Wednesday night’s trip to Leeds United.

The Hammers head to Elland Road looking for their first win in the Premier League since October and sit level on points with the relegation zone following five straight defeats in England’s top-flight.

For the game, winger Maxwel Cornet remains out after missing over three months with a calf issue. Centre-back Kurt Zouma, who has been in light training following knee surgery in November, will also miss out.

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Moyes also provided an update on striker Michail Antonio, who despite featuring on the bench for Friday’s 2-0 loss at Brentford, has struggled with a recent illness.

“Micks had a bit of illness that a lot of people have had around the country at the moment,” said Moyes.

“Hopefully, Mick is okay. Kurt is doing well but he’s not available for this game.”

There could however be a full Premier League debut for £30m summer signing Nayef Aguerd, who missed virtually all of the season prior to the World Cup with an ankle injury suffered in pre-season.

West Ham United's Nayef Aguerd and Blackburn Rovers' Dilan Markanday during the Carabao Cup third round match between West Ham United and Blackburn Rovers at London Stadium (Rob Newell - CameraSport via Getty Images)

The former Stade Rennais defender was a key player for Morocco at the World Cup, but missed their final three games with a groin injury and a virus.

Aguerd did make the bench for the Brentford defeat and Moyes has said that he could make his full debut at Elland Road.

“He is. He is getting himself back at the moment and he’s getting himself back ready,” added Moyes.

“He picked up a virus when he was at the World Cup and he picked up an injury, which didn’t help either, just before the semi-final. He's back training and has been building himself up here.”

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