The duo left Stamford Bridge at the end of last season, ending their 13 and 8 year seplls with the club, respectively.
But with Chelsea captain John Terry extending his deal with the club by one year, it appears Cole and Lampard took the decision to part ways with the club, with Mourinho confirming Chelse had offered the pair a new contract.
The Blues boss said: “They were [offered new deals].
“We were in this process until the end, but you arrive into a moment [where you ask] what’s the best for the team? What’s the best for the other players? What’s the best for them?”
“And it depends also on their mentality.
“Lampard and Ashley, they will be until the last day players to compete, to play every game, to be involved.
“I think they are happier – in spite of their love for Chelsea – in this new situation for them.
“The best way for competitive people like them to be happy, to enjoy the last part of their career, is to go and play.”
By Phil Wellbrook
