Nicolas Anelka blasts 'ageist' Blues

Nicolas Anelka today criticised Chelsea’s treatment of their older players, as speculation mounted that Ashley Cole and Frank Lampard will leave the club at the end of the season.

The pair’s current deals run out in the summer and they are believed to have rejected the offer of a one-year extension. Cole, 31, and Lampard, 34, appear to be falling victim to Chelsea’s decision to offer only short-term deals to players over 30.

The approach contributed to Didier Drogba and Anelka leaving Stamford Bridge for Shanghai Shenhua earlier this year. Florent Malouda, 32, whose contract runs out at the end of the season, will also soon leave after being sent to train with the reserves.

Anelka (above) said: “At Chelsea, once you get past 30, you get the impression you’re too old. It’s sad what’s happening to Flo. Two years ago, he was Chelsea’s player of the year. Chelsea could react in another way. When they need you, you’re the best. When they don’t, get lost.”