Frank Lampard responds after his face found in £38million drugs bust in Australia

Former Chelsea boss pictured with alleged cartel boss in Sydney

Assistant coach for Everton F.C. Frank Lampard has been at the center of a media storm following the circulation of a photo showing him alongside an alleged cartel kingpin in Sydney. The image was taken at a bar and is part of an Australian police investigation into a multi-million dollar drug bust.

As authorities continue to investigate Lampard's connection to the alleged cartel boss, a spokesperson for the former Chelsea manager has released a statement denying any wrongdoing.

Lampard was in Sydney on holiday when the photo was taken, and his spokesperson claims that he was unaware of the man's alleged criminal activities. Lampard stated that he has never met the man before and only posed for the photo because he was asked.

Police investigation ongoing

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) are leading the investigation into the drug bust, which has seen millions of dollars worth of drugs seized. The AFP is also investigating the alleged cartel boss, who is currently in custody.

The AFP has not yet commented on Lampard's involvement in the investigation, but it is expected that he will be questioned by police in the coming days.

Lampard's reputation damaged

The news of Lampard's involvement in the drug bust has damaged his reputation. Lampard is a highly respected figure in the football world, and his association with the alleged cartel boss has shocked many fans.

It is too early to say what impact this will have on Lampard's career, but it is clear that his reputation has been tarnished.

Lampard's statement in full

"I am aware of the media reports regarding a photograph of me with a man alleged to be a cartel boss," Lampard said in a statement.

"I was in Sydney on holiday when the photo was taken, and I was unaware of the man's alleged criminal activities. I have never met the man before, and I only posed for the photo because he asked me to.

"I am cooperating fully with the police investigation, and I am confident that I will be cleared of any wrongdoing."