Former Newcastle United midfielder Olivier Bernard is surprised they allowed Hatem Ben Arfa to join Hull City.
Alan Pardew had made it clear that he wanted the banished star away from his first team squad.
Bernard told the Evening Chronicle: "It's a big gamble. It's also a big statement from Alan Pardew that he does not believe in Hatem.
"The only problem is, it seems he is the only one who doesn't believe in him. The big issue is that Newcastle won't look very good if he starts to perform the way Hatem can in a Hull City shirt."
He added: "I don't understand. I know there is a problem but even then you have to wonder why you'd just leave the player out all together.
"Surely you keep him in the squad or on the bench? He can still change games.
"You are looking at a player that on form can rip defences to pieces. I know the sort of damage he can cause.
"I just find it hard to let a player of such quality sign for a Premier League rival. Hull are building an empire, they have signed well this summer.
"And I think they'll get a top 10 slot. They are ready to challenge. Newcastle on the other hand have good young players but they are not ready to challenge.
"We are letting big players go too often."
