Football has had a terrible fortnight, having to confront the fact that many of the characters supporters idolize and revere are, in fact, less than outstanding human beings, and the most recent event of shame, with Kurt Zouma kicking a cat, is simply horrific.
However, as with any current event, there are opposing viewpoints on the subject, and Michail Antonio has questioned the reaction to his club teammate's behavior, questioning if the same enthusiasm would be expended in the cause of eradicating racism.
We've known for a long time that footballing administrations prefer to bury their heads in the sand when it comes to racial abuse, and that the punishment for clubs found guilty of harboring racist spectators during matches has been practically non-existent.
However, Antonio appears to be presenting a picture in which the two disparate things are comparable, and many are skeptical.
"I've got a question for you," Antonio spoke out the window of his automobile.
"Do you believe that what he's done is more heinous than racism?
"I'm not condoning anything he's done, and I don't agree with anything he's done, but there have been people convicted in court for racism and then went on to play football."
David Moyes was heavily chastised after selecting Zouma in his team on Tuesday evening, despite the London club's sponsors pulling out in anger, and this has simply added fuel to the fire.
"People are demanding that he be fired and lose his job," Antonio stated.
"I just have to ask everyone: Is what he's done any worse than what those who have been convicted of racism have done?
The RSPCA took Zouma's family cats away for health tests on Wednesday, and they will remain with the animal welfare authorities until an investigation is completed. However, the animals could still be returned to the player, which is concerning.
Brother's repercussions
Meanwhile, Yoan Zouma, Kurt Zouma's brother, appears to have been suspended by Dagenham & Redbridge, who have stated that he will not play for the club until the RSPCA investigation into the video is completed.
Yoan was apparently filming Kurt as he dropped kicked his beloved kittens from behind the camera.
"Dagenham & Redbridge FC would like to reiterate that it condemns any kind of animal cruelty and completely understands the outrage of many of its fans," the club stated in a statement.
"As a result, the club has determined that Yoan will not play for Dagenham & Redbridge in any competitive games until the RSPCA has completed its inquiry. At the conclusion of the RSPCA inquiry, any additional action considered essential will be taken."
