Paul Scholes has labelled West Ham’s decision to sell James Tomkins to Crystal Palace as a “strange move”.

Tomkins, 27, played over 200 league games for the Hammers after graduating through the club’s youth system in 2008.

But West Ham agreed to let the defender join London rivals Palace in the summer in a deal worth £10m.

MORE: Ex-Arsenal striker offers explanation for lean Crystal Palace spell

MORE: Palace have turned a corner - we feel we can beat anyone now

Scholes, who made 718 appearances for Manchester United in over 20 years at Old Trafford, said on BT Sport: “I thought that the sale of Tomkins was a strange one.

“Okay, he is not probably a top-drawer defender, but I think he was very settled in their defence. He is a decent defender.

“I thought selling him for £10 million to Crystal Palace was a strange move.”

Basildon-born Tomkins has made three appearances for the Eagles since his switch to south London and opened the scoring in the 4-1 win over Stoke City.

News Shopper: