Kurt Zouma was named in West Ham's starting line-up to face Watford on Tuesday night, despite his recent cat-kicking shame.
The French defender was condemned by his club, the RSPCA and other animal welfare groups after a video emerged of him dropping, kicking and slapping his pet cat.
Pundits Owen Hargreaves and Joe Cole, a former Hammer, have weighed in on the startling decision made by David Moyes.
Speaking before the game with BT Sport, Cole said: 'From West Ham's perspective, I can see why they probably want to let it settle, get the game out of the way, and deal with it internally. But I think it's a miscalculation by the club - he could have sat this one out.
'But he's here, he's starting. It's an unusual disciplinary matter, I don't remember seeing animal cruelty within football. I'm surprised he's in tonight.'
Former England midfielder Owen Hargreaves was equally as shocked as Cole, adding: 'I'm really surprised.
'He's their best centre-back but I thought he'd be out for at least a couple of games. This won't be the end of this, it puts a lot of pressure on him and the football club.'
Speaking to BT Sport, Hammers boss Moyes reiterated that the video would not effect his on field decisions yet.
In response as to whether Zouma would be dropped, Moyes said: 'No, because he is one of our better players. But it is certainly ongoing and the club are dealing with it, so that is a separate matter.'
Zouma has apologised for his actions while Essex Police have confirmed they are liaising with the RSPCA as part of their 'urgent enquiries'.
The Frenchman was constantly met with a chorus of boos by the travelling Watford fans on Tuesday night.
