British investigators on Wednesday said they had recovered a body from the wreckage of the plane carrying <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/its-a-bad-dream-emiliano-salas-father-says-after-plane-recovered-194924">Argentine footballer Emiliano Sala</a> in the Channel.

But bad weather has forced the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) to abandon hopes of pulling the plane to shore.&nbsp;

The light aircraft was carrying the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/we-love-you-emi-nantes-players-pay-emotional-tribute-to-emiliano-sala-194536">28-year-old footballer </a>to his new Premier League team Cardiff City when it disappeared near the island of Guernsey on January 21, along with 59-year-old pilot David Ibbotson.

A shipwreck hunter hired by Sala's family with the help of funds donated by football stars such as Lionel Messi had found the plane wreckage on Sunday.

The AAIB who then took over the operation revealed on Monday that an unidentified body had been found at the site.

"In challenging conditions, the AAIB and its specialist contractors successfully recovered the body previously seen amidst the wreckage," the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) said Wednesday.

"The operation was carried out in as dignified a way as possible and the families were kept informed of progress."

However, attempts to recover the aircraft during the underwater operation were unsuccessful.&nbsp;

"The weather forecast is poor for the foreseeable future and so the difficult decision was taken to bring the overall operation to a close," the statement added.

It said that extensive video footage captured by a remotely operated vehicle is expected to "provide valuable evidence for our safety investigation," adding that it intends to publish an interim report on the accident later this month.&nbsp;

The recovered body will be now be passed to the coroner for identification.&nbsp;

Sala was flying to join up with Cardiff from French team Nantes in what was the most expensive signing in the Welsh club's history.

The plane, a Piper PA-46 Malibu, vanished from radar around 20 kilometres (12 miles) north of Guernsey, with pilot Ibbotson the only other person aboard.

After the official rescue team gave up their search, saying there was little chance of finding anyone alive, Sala's family raised more than 370,000 euros ($422,000) in an online campaign to pay for a private hunt.

"Had that not happened, I don't think anybody would have searched for the plane," said shipwreck hunter David Mearns, whose private company found the plane before calling in the AAIB.

The discovery of two seat cushions on the French coast last week revealed that the plane was broken, Mearns added.

Earlier this week Sala's father, Horacio Sala, acknowledged that there was no prospect of finding his son alive.

"There's no longer any hope," he told Fox Sports.

"We hope the two bodies are inside (the plane). It's over, the only thing I hope now is that they find them."

British investigators on Wednesday said they had recovered a body from the wreckage of the plane carrying Argentine footballer Emiliano Sala in the Channel. But bad weather has forced the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) to abandon hopes of pulling the plane to shore.

British investigators on Wednesday said they had recovered a body from the wreckage of the plane carrying Argentine footballer Emiliano Sala in the Channel. But bad weather has forced the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) to abandon hopes of pulling the plane to shore. The light aircraft was carrying the 28-year-old footballer to his new Premier League team Cardiff City when it disappeared near the island of Guernsey on January 21, along with 59-year-old pilot David Ibbotson. A shipwreck hunter hired by Sala's family with the help of funds donated by football stars such as Lionel Messi had found the plane wreckage on Sunday. The AAIB who then took over the operation revealed on Monday that an unidentified body had been found at the site. "In challenging conditions, the AAIB and its specialist contractors successfully recovered the body previously seen amidst the wreckage," the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) said Wednesday. "The operation was carried out in as dignified a way as possible and the families were kept informed of progress." However, attempts to recover the aircraft during the underwater operation were unsuccessful. "The weather forecast is poor for the foreseeable future and so the difficult decision was taken to bring the overall operation to a close," the statement added. It said that extensive video footage captured by a remotely operated vehicle is expected to "provide valuable evidence for our safety investigation," adding that it intends to publish an interim report on the accident later this month. The recovered body will be now be passed to the coroner for identification. Sala was flying to join up with Cardiff from French team Nantes in what was the most expensive signing in the Welsh club's history. The plane, a Piper PA-46 Malibu, vanished from radar around 20 kilometres (12 miles) north of Guernsey, with pilot Ibbotson the only other person aboard. After the official rescue team gave up their search, saying there was little chance of finding anyone alive, Sala's family raised more than 370,000 euros ($422,000) in an online campaign to pay for a private hunt. "Had that not happened, I don't think anybody would have searched for the plane," said shipwreck hunter David Mearns, whose private company found the plane before calling in the AAIB. The discovery of two seat cushions on the French coast last week revealed that the plane was broken, Mearns added. Earlier this week Sala's father, Horacio Sala, acknowledged that there was no prospect of finding his son alive. "There's no longer any hope," he told Fox Sports. "We hope the two bodies are inside (the plane). It's over, the only thing I hope now is that they find them."

Body recovered from Sala's plane wreckage, say British investigators

Argentine football star Emiliano Sala's father Sunday was awakened from a sound sleep to learn that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/footballer-emiliano-salas-missing-plane-found-claim-investigators-194908">the plane in which his son was probably killed, has been found.</a>

"I can't believe it. It's a bad dream," Horacio Sala said when contacted by Cronica TV at his home in Progreso.

He was the only one to stay behind in Argentina when the family rushed to Nantes, France to try to help with the search.

"I talk to them every day. But since I don't have WhatsApp it's expensive to call them or for them to call me. But anyway, they kept saying days were going by, and that there had been zero word on Emiliano, or on the plane," his father said.

Sala was travelling from France to join up with his new club, Premier League side Cardiff City, in a light aircraft on January 21 when it went missing close to the Channel Islands.

Suspected debris from the plane washed up on the Normandy coastline in France last Wednesday.

Sala was flying in the Piper PA-46 Malibu plane after transferring from French team Nantes in a 17 million euro ($19.3 million) move.

Top footballers were among more than 4,500 contributors to a crowd funding page that raised over 300,000 euros ($343,000) to look for the wreck.

Argentine football star Emiliano Sala's father Sunday was awakened from a sound sleep to learn that the plane in which his son was probably killed, has been found.

Argentine football star Emiliano Sala's father Sunday was awakened from a sound sleep to learn that the plane in which his son was probably killed, has been found. "I can't believe it. It's a bad dream," Horacio Sala said when contacted by Cronica TV at his home in Progreso. He was the only one to stay behind in Argentina when the family rushed to Nantes, France to try to help with the search. "I talk to them every day. But since I don't have WhatsApp it's expensive to call them or for them to call me. But anyway, they kept saying days were going by, and that there had been zero word on Emiliano, or on the plane," his father said. Sala was travelling from France to join up with his new club, Premier League side Cardiff City, in a light aircraft on January 21 when it went missing close to the Channel Islands. Suspected debris from the plane washed up on the Normandy coastline in France last Wednesday. Sala was flying in the Piper PA-46 Malibu plane after transferring from French team Nantes in a 17 million euro ($19.3 million) move. Top footballers were among more than 4,500 contributors to a crowd funding page that raised over 300,000 euros ($343,000) to look for the wreck.

'It's a bad dream,' Emiliano Sala's father says after plane recovered

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/privately-funded-search-for-emiliano-sala-plane-starts-193615">missing plane carrying Argentinian footballer Emiliano Sala</a> and his pilot has been found, investigators told AFP on Sunday.

"I can confirm it has been found," a spokeswoman for Britain's Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) said.

She said the AAIB would issue a statement on Monday.

Sala was travelling from France to join up with his new club, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cardiff-players-scared-to-fly-after-emiliano-salas-disappearance-says-defender-bamba-193829">Premier League side Cardiff City</a>, in a light aircraft on January 21 when it went missing close to the Channel Islands.

Suspected debris from the plane washed up on the Normandy coastline in France last Wednesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cardiff-striker-emiliano-sala-concerned-about-plane-in-final-audio-message-192122">Sala was flying in the Piper PA-46 Malibu plane </a>after transferring from French team Nantes in a 17 million euro ($19.3 million) move.

It vanished from radar around 20 kilometres (12 miles) north of Guernsey, with pilot Dave Ibbotson the only other person aboard.

David Mearns, whose private company, Blue Water Recoveries, was hired by Sala's family to search for the plane, said on Twitter that the wreck was spotted early Sunday.

" There's a substantial amount of wreckage on the seabed," he wrote, adding: "This is about the best result we could have hoped for the families."

Top footballers were among more than 4,500 contributors to a crowdfunding page that raised over 300,000 euros ($343,000) to look for the wreck.

The missing plane carrying Argentinian footballer Emiliano Sala and his pilot has been found, investigators told AFP on Sunday. "I can confirm it has been found," a spokeswoman for Britain's Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) said.

The missing plane carrying Argentinian footballer Emiliano Sala and his pilot has been found, investigators told AFP on Sunday. "I can confirm it has been found," a spokeswoman for Britain's Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) said. She said the AAIB would issue a statement on Monday. Sala was travelling from France to join up with his new club, Premier League side Cardiff City, in a light aircraft on January 21 when it went missing close to the Channel Islands. Suspected debris from the plane washed up on the Normandy coastline in France last Wednesday. Sala was flying in the Piper PA-46 Malibu plane after transferring from French team Nantes in a 17 million euro ($19.3 million) move. It vanished from radar around 20 kilometres (12 miles) north of Guernsey, with pilot Dave Ibbotson the only other person aboard. David Mearns, whose private company, Blue Water Recoveries, was hired by Sala's family to search for the plane, said on Twitter that the wreck was spotted early Sunday. " There's a substantial amount of wreckage on the seabed," he wrote, adding: "This is about the best result we could have hoped for the families." Top footballers were among more than 4,500 contributors to a crowdfunding page that raised over 300,000 euros ($343,000) to look for the wreck.

Footballer Emiliano Sala's missing plane found, claim investigators

British investigators on Monday said they had spotted a body in underwater images of the wreckage of the plane carrying footballer <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/factbox-cardiff-city-striker-emiliano-sala-192054">Emiliano Sala</a> and pilot David Ibbotson that disappeared in the Channel two weeks ago.

"Tragically, in video footage from the ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle), one occupant is visible amidst the wreckage," the Air Accident Investigation Branch said in a statement.

"The image shows the rear left side of the fuselage including part of the aircraft registration," the AAIB said. "We intend to publish an interim report within one month of the accident occurring."
<img alt="Emiliano Sala" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ada4c098-465e-4784-a0ca-f6a35055c718" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/sala.jpg" />
Earlier, the missing plane carrying Sala and his pilot was found, the investigators told AFP on Sunday.&nbsp;

"I can confirm it has been found," a spokeswoman for Britain's Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) said.&nbsp;

Sala was travelling from France to join up with his new club, Premier League side Cardiff City, in a light aircraft <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/plane-carrying-cardiff-city-striker-emiliano-sala-goes-missing-191987">on January 21 when it went missing</a> close to the Channel Islands.

Suspected debris from the plane washed up on the Normandy coastline in France last Wednesday.&nbsp;

Sala was flying in the Piper PA-46 Malibu plane after transferring from French team Nantes in a 17 million euro ($19.3 million) move.&nbsp;

It vanished from radar around 20 kilometres (12 miles) north of Guernsey, with pilot Dave Ibbotson the only other person aboard.&nbsp;

David Mearns, whose private company, Blue Water Recoveries, was hired by Sala's family to search for the plane, said on Twitter that the wreck was spotted early Sunday.&nbsp;

" There's a substantial amount of wreckage on the seabed," he wrote, adding: "This is about the best result we could have hoped for the families."

Top footballers were among more than 4,500 contributors to a crowdfunding page that raised over 300,000 euros ($343,000) to look for the wreck.

British investigators on Monday said they had spotted a body in underwater images of the wreckage of the plane carrying footballer Emiliano Sala and pilot David Ibbotson that disappeared in the Channel two weeks ago.

British investigators on Monday said they had spotted a body in underwater images of the wreckage of the plane carrying footballer Emiliano Sala and pilot David Ibbotson that disappeared in the Channel two weeks ago. "Tragically, in video footage from the ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle), one occupant is visible amidst the wreckage," the Air Accident Investigation Branch said in a statement. "The image shows the rear left side of the fuselage including part of the aircraft registration," the AAIB said. "We intend to publish an interim report within one month of the accident occurring." Earlier, the missing plane carrying Sala and his pilot was found, the investigators told AFP on Sunday. "I can confirm it has been found," a spokeswoman for Britain's Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) said. Sala was travelling from France to join up with his new club, Premier League side Cardiff City, in a light aircraft on January 21 when it went missing close to the Channel Islands. Suspected debris from the plane washed up on the Normandy coastline in France last Wednesday. Sala was flying in the Piper PA-46 Malibu plane after transferring from French team Nantes in a 17 million euro ($19.3 million) move. It vanished from radar around 20 kilometres (12 miles) north of Guernsey, with pilot Dave Ibbotson the only other person aboard. David Mearns, whose private company, Blue Water Recoveries, was hired by Sala's family to search for the plane, said on Twitter that the wreck was spotted early Sunday. " There's a substantial amount of wreckage on the seabed," he wrote, adding: "This is about the best result we could have hoped for the families." Top footballers were among more than 4,500 contributors to a crowdfunding page that raised over 300,000 euros ($343,000) to look for the wreck.

Body found in wreckage of footballer Emiliano Sala's plane: Investigators

Cardiff City boss Neil Warnock said that missing striker Emiliano Sala, who is presumed dead following a plane crash, would have been proud of his team following their 2-0 Premier League win over Bournemouth on Saturday.

Bobby Reid scored early in each half in a game that turned into a celebration of Sala, the club's record 15-million-pound ($19.63-million) signing from French Ligue 1 club Nantes, who disappeared along with the pilot of a small plane on Jan. 21.

The Argentinian striker and the pilot are believed to have died after crashing into the sea, and a privately-funded search is set to begin on Sunday.

The Cardiff players held up a T-shirt bearing the image of the 28-year-old Sala, who never played a game for the club, after Reid rifled home an early penalty to give the relegation-threatened Bluebirds the lead in the fifth minute.

"I know he's not here today, but Emiliano today, he would have been proud of us," said Warnock, who had struggled to fight back tears as he applauded the crowd on the pitch after the game.

Fans were handed daffodils as they entered the Cardiff City Stadium and a minute's silence was observed, with many holding up coloured cards to form a mosaic in Sala's honour.

The players' tribute after Reid's fifth-minute penalty was followed in the 28th minute by a round of applause that swelled around the ground as fans sang Sala's name.

Reid added a second goal 15 seconds after the break to put his side two up and seal three valuable points in their battle to avoid relegation but, despite an outstanding performance, they remain third from bottom on 22 points, two behind Burnley.

Bournemouth were a shadow of the side that hammered Chelsea 4-0 in their midweek league clash, and they remain in 10th position in the table on 33 points.

Cardiff City boss Neil Warnock said that missing striker Emiliano Sala, who is presumed dead following a plane crash, would have been proud of his team following their 2-0 Premier League win over Bournemouth on Saturday.

Cardiff City boss Neil Warnock said that missing striker Emiliano Sala, who is presumed dead following a plane crash, would have been proud of his team following their 2-0 Premier League win over Bournemouth on Saturday. Bobby Reid scored early in each half in a game that turned into a celebration of Sala, the club's record 15-million-pound ($19.63-million) signing from French Ligue 1 club Nantes, who disappeared along with the pilot of a small plane on Jan. 21. The Argentinian striker and the pilot are believed to have died after crashing into the sea, and a privately-funded search is set to begin on Sunday. The Cardiff players held up a T-shirt bearing the image of the 28-year-old Sala, who never played a game for the club, after Reid rifled home an early penalty to give the relegation-threatened Bluebirds the lead in the fifth minute. "I know he's not here today, but Emiliano today, he would have been proud of us," said Warnock, who had struggled to fight back tears as he applauded the crowd on the pitch after the game. Fans were handed daffodils as they entered the Cardiff City Stadium and a minute's silence was observed, with many holding up coloured cards to form a mosaic in Sala's honour. The players' tribute after Reid's fifth-minute penalty was followed in the 28th minute by a round of applause that swelled around the ground as fans sang Sala's name. Reid added a second goal 15 seconds after the break to put his side two up and seal three valuable points in their battle to avoid relegation but, despite an outstanding performance, they remain third from bottom on 22 points, two behind Burnley. Bournemouth were a shadow of the side that hammered Chelsea 4-0 in their midweek league clash, and they remain in 10th position in the table on 33 points.

Missing Emiliano Sala would be 'proud' of Cardiff's win over Bournemouth: Manager Warnock

An underwater seabed search for the missing plane that was carrying football player Emiliano Sala and pilot David Ibbotson began on February 3.&nbsp;

Cardiff City's new signing Sala and the aircraft's pilot, David Ibbotson, have been missing since their plane disappeared over the Channel last week.&nbsp;

Britain's Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) said its Geo Ocean III vessel arrived on Sunday morning to the search area.&nbsp;

Together with a privately-funded vessel, it is conducting sonar surveys off Guernsey.&nbsp;

The planned search area, which is based on the plane's last radar contact, is approximately 24 nautical miles north of Guernsey.

Also Read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/we-love-you-emi-nantes-players-pay-emotional-tribute-to-emiliano-sala-194536">'We love you Emi': Nantes players pay emotional tribute to Emiliano Sala</a>

The 28-year-old Argentina-born forward had been en route from Nantes in western France with pilot Ibbotson to make his debut for Welsh team Cardiff City when the plane disappeared over the English Channel on January 21.

AAIB said it was informed on Monday (January 28) that part of a seat cushion had been found on a beach near Surtainville on the Cotentin Peninsula in northern France. A second cushion was found in the same area later that day.&nbsp;

Rescuers scoured about 1,700 square miles (4,400 square km) after the single-engined Piper Malibu plane went missing but had failed to find a trace of the aircraft until Monday.

The plane had been cruising at 5,000 feet (1,525 m) when the pilot requested to descend to a lower altitude on passing Guernsey. It then lost radar contact at 2,300 feet (700 m).

An underwater seabed search for the missing plane that was carrying football player Emiliano Sala and pilot David Ibbotson began on February 3. Cardiff City's new signing Sala and the aircraft's pilot, David Ibbotson, have been missing since their plane disappeared over the Channel last week.

An underwater seabed search for the missing plane that was carrying football player Emiliano Sala and pilot David Ibbotson began on February 3. Cardiff City's new signing Sala and the aircraft's pilot, David Ibbotson, have been missing since their plane disappeared over the Channel last week. Britain's Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) said its Geo Ocean III vessel arrived on Sunday morning to the search area. Together with a privately-funded vessel, it is conducting sonar surveys off Guernsey. The planned search area, which is based on the plane's last radar contact, is approximately 24 nautical miles north of Guernsey. Also Read: 'We love you Emi': Nantes players pay emotional tribute to Emiliano Sala The 28-year-old Argentina-born forward had been en route from Nantes in western France with pilot Ibbotson to make his debut for Welsh team Cardiff City when the plane disappeared over the English Channel on January 21. AAIB said it was informed on Monday (January 28) that part of a seat cushion had been found on a beach near Surtainville on the Cotentin Peninsula in northern France. A second cushion was found in the same area later that day. Rescuers scoured about 1,700 square miles (4,400 square km) after the single-engined Piper Malibu plane went missing but had failed to find a trace of the aircraft until Monday. The plane had been cruising at 5,000 feet (1,525 m) when the pilot requested to descend to a lower altitude on passing Guernsey. It then lost radar contact at 2,300 feet (700 m).

Underwater search for Emiliano Sala's plane begins

Nantes&nbsp;paid a moving tribute to their former team-mate, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/factbox-cardiff-city-striker-emiliano-sala-192054">Emiliano Sala</a>, as the team played their first game since the disappearance of the Argentine striker&nbsp;at&nbsp;the Stade de la Beaujoire.&nbsp;

Cardiff City's new signing Sala and the aircraft's pilot, David Ibbotson, have been <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/plane-carrying-cardiff-city-striker-emiliano-sala-goes-missing-191987">missing&nbsp;since their plane disappeared</a> over the Channel last week.&nbsp;

Before the game, players&nbsp;warmed up wearing t-shirts with "On T'aime Emi" (We Love You Emi) written on the back and the player's photo on the front.&nbsp;

A giant picture of Sala was projected onto the centre circle.&nbsp;

The whole Nantes squad formed a circle moments before the match started as coach Vahid Halilhodzic spoke to the players.

Nantes players wore Sala's name on the back of their shirts when the game kicked off.&nbsp;

The tearful fans held a minute's applause and chanted his name.

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« Emi', on t'aime » 
 
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Emi', pour toujours avec nous 💛<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PrayForSala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PrayForSala</a> <a href="https://t.co/GRV80nZu8o">pic.twitter.com/GRV80nZu8o</a>
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Former&nbsp;Nantes&nbsp;forward Yacine Bammou, who became a close friend of Sala's before leaving for Caen, was in tears watching on, while coach Vahid Halilhodzic also struggled to contain his emotions.

"It's hard to talk about this, it's a terrible moment, we're all shocked," Halilhodzic said earlier on Wednesday.

"Hope, whether it's slim or not? I don't know, but we're still waiting for a surprise, I hope it will come very soon.

"He is such a nice, kind, respectful, endearing boy and a true warrior who loved the club."

The game finished 1-1, with&nbsp;Nantes&nbsp;full-back Fabio and Saint-Etienne midfielder Yann M'Vila both sent off for a scuffle on the stroke of half-time.

Earlier, the accident investigators said two seat cushions had been found which are likely to have come from the plane carrying Sala and the pilot.

"I did not have much hope. Now we must try to mourn and then move forward," said 69-year-old&nbsp;Nantes&nbsp;supporter Andree Guittet.

Nantes paid a moving tribute to their former team-mate, Emiliano Sala, as the team played their first game since the disappearance of the Argentine striker at the Stade de la Beaujoire.

Nantes paid a moving tribute to their former team-mate, Emiliano Sala, as the team played their first game since the disappearance of the Argentine striker at the Stade de la Beaujoire. Cardiff City's new signing Sala and the aircraft's pilot, David Ibbotson, have been missing since their plane disappeared over the Channel last week. Before the game, players warmed up wearing t-shirts with "On T'aime Emi" (We Love You Emi) written on the back and the player's photo on the front. A giant picture of Sala was projected onto the centre circle. The whole Nantes squad formed a circle moments before the match started as coach Vahid Halilhodzic spoke to the players. Nantes players wore Sala's name on the back of their shirts when the game kicked off. The tearful fans held a minute's applause and chanted his name. « Emi', on t'aime » Hier soir, le temps s'est arrêté... Le film de la soirée 📺#FCNASSE | #PlayForSala pic.twitter.com/fVPuxenqLO — FC Nantes (@FCNantes) January 31, 2019 × Emi', pour toujours avec nous 💛#PrayForSala pic.twitter.com/GRV80nZu8o — FC Nantes (@FCNantes) February 1, 2019 × Former Nantes forward Yacine Bammou, who became a close friend of Sala's before leaving for Caen, was in tears watching on, while coach Vahid Halilhodzic also struggled to contain his emotions. "It's hard to talk about this, it's a terrible moment, we're all shocked," Halilhodzic said earlier on Wednesday. "Hope, whether it's slim or not? I don't know, but we're still waiting for a surprise, I hope it will come very soon. "He is such a nice, kind, respectful, endearing boy and a true warrior who loved the club." The game finished 1-1, with Nantes full-back Fabio and Saint-Etienne midfielder Yann M'Vila both sent off for a scuffle on the stroke of half-time. Earlier, the accident investigators said two seat cushions had been found which are likely to have come from the plane carrying Sala and the pilot. "I did not have much hope. Now we must try to mourn and then move forward," said 69-year-old Nantes supporter Andree Guittet.

'We love you Emi': Nantes players pay emotional tribute to Emiliano Sala

Cardiff City manager Neil Warnock said some players did not want to join the Welsh club in the January transfer window after new signing <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/factbox-cardiff-city-striker-emiliano-sala-192054">Emiliano Sala</a>'s flight disappeared over the English Channel last week.

Cardiff's 28-year-old record signing Sala was en route from Nantes with pilot David Ibbotson when his plane disappeared on Jan. 21. He is <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/plane-carrying-cardiff-city-striker-emiliano-sala-goes-missing-191987">yet to be found</a>.

Speaking ahead of Saturday's Premier League encounter with Bournemouth, Warnock described the January transfer window as "difficult" in the tragic circumstances.

"One or two of the strikers we were talking about did not really want to come in the circumstances," Warnock told a news conference on Friday.

"They didn't want to come in after what's happened. So it's been a very difficult window."

Cardiff managed to sign Leandro Bacuna from Reading on Thursday's transfer deadline day and Warnock said he was pleased with what the Curacao international could offer.

"We were fortunate we managed to get Bacuna over the line. He's a player I like and I've watched over the last three years," Warnock added.

"He can play wherever the need is. I've seen him at right back, left back playing in central midfield and also on the right wing. He's versatile."

Cardiff are 18th in the table with 19 points from 24 games.

Cardiff City manager Neil Warnock said some players did not want to join the Welsh club in the January transfer window after new signing Emiliano Sala's flight disappeared over the English Channel last week.

Cardiff City manager Neil Warnock said some players did not want to join the Welsh club in the January transfer window after new signing Emiliano Sala's flight disappeared over the English Channel last week. Cardiff's 28-year-old record signing Sala was en route from Nantes with pilot David Ibbotson when his plane disappeared on Jan. 21. He is yet to be found. Speaking ahead of Saturday's Premier League encounter with Bournemouth, Warnock described the January transfer window as "difficult" in the tragic circumstances. "One or two of the strikers we were talking about did not really want to come in the circumstances," Warnock told a news conference on Friday. "They didn't want to come in after what's happened. So it's been a very difficult window." Cardiff managed to sign Leandro Bacuna from Reading on Thursday's transfer deadline day and Warnock said he was pleased with what the Curacao international could offer. "We were fortunate we managed to get Bacuna over the line. He's a player I like and I've watched over the last three years," Warnock added. "He can play wherever the need is. I've seen him at right back, left back playing in central midfield and also on the right wing. He's versatile." Cardiff are 18th in the table with 19 points from 24 games.

Some players reluctant to join club after Sala disappearance: Cardiff City manager Neil Warnock

Some of the Cardiff City players are scared to fly after January signing Emiliano Sala's flight disappeared over the English Channel last week, defender Sol Bamba has said.

Cardiff played their first game since Sala's disappearance on Tuesday, a 2-1 Premier League defeat at Arsenal, where tributes were paid to the missing Argentine forward and pilot David Ibbotson prior to kickoff.&nbsp;

The plane carrying Sala that disappeared from radar on Jan. 21 is yet to be found and Bamba said the team was badly affected by the "unusual situation".

"We travel by plane and some of the lads have been thinking `I don`t want to go on it anymore`," Bamba told BBC.

"The gaffer... and the club have been good in terms of bringing someone in to talk to if we need to. And I think some of the lads do, they need to get it out."

Bamba, who knew Sala personally through his agent, said he discussed the move to Cardiff with the Argentine who was signed from French Ligue 1 club Nantes.

"It is not just me finding it difficult, even though I had a personal connection to him," Bamba added. "I don't feel more sad than the other lads, everyone feels sad, the whole club."

Rescuers ended their search for Sala last week after saying there was little chance anyone aboard had survived but a privately funded operation is set to search for wreckage on Sunday.&nbsp;

Some of the Cardiff City players are scared to fly after January signing Emiliano Sala's flight disappeared over the English Channel last week, defender Sol Bamba has said.

Some of the Cardiff City players are scared to fly after January signing Emiliano Sala's flight disappeared over the English Channel last week, defender Sol Bamba has said. Cardiff played their first game since Sala's disappearance on Tuesday, a 2-1 Premier League defeat at Arsenal, where tributes were paid to the missing Argentine forward and pilot David Ibbotson prior to kickoff. The plane carrying Sala that disappeared from radar on Jan. 21 is yet to be found and Bamba said the team was badly affected by the "unusual situation". "We travel by plane and some of the lads have been thinking `I don`t want to go on it anymore`," Bamba told BBC. "The gaffer... and the club have been good in terms of bringing someone in to talk to if we need to. And I think some of the lads do, they need to get it out." Bamba, who knew Sala personally through his agent, said he discussed the move to Cardiff with the Argentine who was signed from French Ligue 1 club Nantes. "It is not just me finding it difficult, even though I had a personal connection to him," Bamba added. "I don't feel more sad than the other lads, everyone feels sad, the whole club." Rescuers ended their search for Sala last week after saying there was little chance anyone aboard had survived but a privately funded operation is set to search for wreckage on Sunday.

Cardiff players scared to fly after Emiliano Sala's disappearance, says defender Bamba

Investigators searching for a lost plane carrying <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cardiff-players-scared-to-fly-after-emiliano-salas-disappearance-says-defender-bamba-193829">Premier League soccer player Emiliano Sala</a> said on Wednesday an underwater search would begin after they found two seat cushions on the French coast that likely belonged to the aircraft.

The 28-year-old Argentina-born forward had been en route from <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/privately-funded-search-for-emiliano-sala-plane-starts-193615">Nantes in western France with pilot David Ibbotson</a> to make his debut for Welsh team Cardiff City when the plane disappeared over the English Channel.

Britain's Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) said part of a seat cushion had been found on a beach near Surtainville on the northern French coast. A second cushion was found in the same area later that same day.

"From a preliminary examination, we have concluded that it is likely that the cushions are from the missing aircraft," the AAIB said in a statement.

Investigators said they now planned to launch an underwater seabed search for aircraft wreckage. Due to weather conditions, the search would start at the end of this weekend and take up to three days.

"Based on a detailed assessment of the flight path and last known radar position, we have now identified a priority search area of approximately four square nautical miles," they said.

A three-day search for the forward and pilot David Ibbotson ended last Thursday&nbsp;after rescuers said there was little chance anyone aboard the single-engine aircraft had survived.

The private search, which is being paid for by fundraisers, involves fishing boats and a survey vessel equipped with state-of-the-art search equipment which will be used to conduct an underwater search.

Earlier, members of the&nbsp;Sala&nbsp;family had taken a private flight to see the area where the rescuers have been searching.

Investigators searching for a lost plane carrying Premier League soccer player Emiliano Sala said on Wednesday an underwater search would begin after they found two seat cushions on the French coast that likely belonged to the aircraft.

Investigators searching for a lost plane carrying Premier League soccer player Emiliano Sala said on Wednesday an underwater search would begin after they found two seat cushions on the French coast that likely belonged to the aircraft. The 28-year-old Argentina-born forward had been en route from Nantes in western France with pilot David Ibbotson to make his debut for Welsh team Cardiff City when the plane disappeared over the English Channel. Britain's Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) said part of a seat cushion had been found on a beach near Surtainville on the northern French coast. A second cushion was found in the same area later that same day. "From a preliminary examination, we have concluded that it is likely that the cushions are from the missing aircraft," the AAIB said in a statement. Investigators said they now planned to launch an underwater seabed search for aircraft wreckage. Due to weather conditions, the search would start at the end of this weekend and take up to three days. "Based on a detailed assessment of the flight path and last known radar position, we have now identified a priority search area of approximately four square nautical miles," they said. A three-day search for the forward and pilot David Ibbotson ended last Thursday after rescuers said there was little chance anyone aboard the single-engine aircraft had survived. The private search, which is being paid for by fundraisers, involves fishing boats and a survey vessel equipped with state-of-the-art search equipment which will be used to conduct an underwater search. Earlier, members of the Sala family had taken a private flight to see the area where the rescuers have been searching.

Cushions found likely to be from missing Sala aircraft: British air investigation

The marine scientist David Mearns, who is leading the private search for <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/factbox-cardiff-city-striker-emiliano-sala-192054">Emiliano Sala</a>'s plane by using underwater technology to scan the seabed, outlined the difficulties his team face at a news conference in Guernsey on Monday (January 28).

Argentine striker Sala, who had just joined Cardiff City from Nantes, has been missing since the plane he was travelling in disappeared over the Channel last Monday (January 21).

A three-day search for the forward and pilot David Ibbotson ended last Thursday (January 24) after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/rescuers-end-search-for-missing-plane-carrying-football-star-emiliano-sala-192562">rescuers said there was little chance anyone aboard the single-engine aircraft had survived</a>.

The private search, which is being paid for by fundraisers, involves fishing boats and a survey vessel equipped with state-of-the-art search equipment which will be used to conduct an underwater search.

"This is a relatively small search area... but there are complications in terms of it being a small plane, the bottom (of the sea) is very hard, there is lots of other wreckage out there, and we have the weather," said Mearns.

"We are working in the worst time. If this was the summertime our confidence level would be much higher, almost to the point of a guarantee."

Earlier in the day, members of the Sala family took a private flight to see the area where the rescuers have been searching.

The marine scientist David Mearns, who is leading the private search for Emiliano Sala's plane by using underwater technology to scan the seabed, outlined the difficulties his team face at a news conference in Guernsey on Monday (January 28).

The marine scientist David Mearns, who is leading the private search for Emiliano Sala's plane by using underwater technology to scan the seabed, outlined the difficulties his team face at a news conference in Guernsey on Monday (January 28). Argentine striker Sala, who had just joined Cardiff City from Nantes, has been missing since the plane he was travelling in disappeared over the Channel last Monday (January 21). A three-day search for the forward and pilot David Ibbotson ended last Thursday (January 24) after rescuers said there was little chance anyone aboard the single-engine aircraft had survived. The private search, which is being paid for by fundraisers, involves fishing boats and a survey vessel equipped with state-of-the-art search equipment which will be used to conduct an underwater search. "This is a relatively small search area... but there are complications in terms of it being a small plane, the bottom (of the sea) is very hard, there is lots of other wreckage out there, and we have the weather," said Mearns. "We are working in the worst time. If this was the summertime our confidence level would be much higher, almost to the point of a guarantee." Earlier in the day, members of the Sala family took a private flight to see the area where the rescuers have been searching.

Privately-funded search for Emiliano Sala plane starts

Arsenal coach Unai Emery said their prime focus is the Premier League but also confirmed they will play the Europa League with "great motivation."&nbsp;

"Our focus now is very clear and it's the Premier League, it's our first (meaning main) focus," said Arsenal's coach Emery during a press conference.&nbsp;

Fifth-placed Arsenal beat Chelsea 2-0 in their most recent Premier League match, a result that will count for little if the Gunners fail to beat relegation-threatened Cardiff.&nbsp;

"If you win against Chelsea and you don't win tomorrow, you are losing three very important points," Emery said.

"Tomorrow we need to impose and to adapt. I think they're going to play with a big motivation, also and finding a lot of duels against us.

"We need tomorrow to be concentrated for the three points like we were against Chelsea."

Arsenal are negotiating to sign two players before the transfer window closes on January 31, but manager Unai Emery said they are not in the market for a defender despite a host of injuries to his back line.&nbsp;

The London club have been linked with a move for Inter Milan winger Ivan Perisic and Barcelona winger Denis Suarez.&nbsp;

However, did not confirm if Ivan Perisic will join Arsenal despite Italian and British reporting that the 29-year-old Croatia international has handed in a transfer request to Inter Milan.&nbsp;

"I don't know exactly the players. I cannot said exactly which players (will join us) but they are players who can help us, and that can play as right or left winger,'' said Emery when asked about possible arrivals to the Emirates Stadium.&nbsp;

Arsenal coach Unai Emery said their prime focus is the Premier League but also confirmed they will play the Europa League with "great motivation." "Our focus now is very clear and it's the Premier League, it's our first (meaning main) focus," said Arsenal's coach Emery during a press conference.

Arsenal coach Unai Emery said their prime focus is the Premier League but also confirmed they will play the Europa League with "great motivation." "Our focus now is very clear and it's the Premier League, it's our first (meaning main) focus," said Arsenal's coach Emery during a press conference. Fifth-placed Arsenal beat Chelsea 2-0 in their most recent Premier League match, a result that will count for little if the Gunners fail to beat relegation-threatened Cardiff. "If you win against Chelsea and you don't win tomorrow, you are losing three very important points," Emery said. "Tomorrow we need to impose and to adapt. I think they're going to play with a big motivation, also and finding a lot of duels against us. "We need tomorrow to be concentrated for the three points like we were against Chelsea." Arsenal are negotiating to sign two players before the transfer window closes on January 31, but manager Unai Emery said they are not in the market for a defender despite a host of injuries to his back line. The London club have been linked with a move for Inter Milan winger Ivan Perisic and Barcelona winger Denis Suarez. However, did not confirm if Ivan Perisic will join Arsenal despite Italian and British reporting that the 29-year-old Croatia international has handed in a transfer request to Inter Milan. "I don't know exactly the players. I cannot said exactly which players (will join us) but they are players who can help us, and that can play as right or left winger,'' said Emery when asked about possible arrivals to the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal coach Unai Emery discusses transfers ahead of Premier League clash against Cardiff City

Emiliano Sala's sister pleads: 'Please don't stop the search'

Guernsey police on Thursday resumed the search for the plane carrying Premier League soccer player <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/factbox-cardiff-city-striker-emiliano-sala-192054">Emiliano Sala</a> which disappeared over the English Channel.

Cardiff City's new signing Sala and the aircraft's pilot, David Ibbotson, have been <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/plane-carrying-cardiff-city-striker-emiliano-sala-goes-missing-191987">missing since Monday nigh</a>t and rescuers have said chances of finding either of them alive were almost vanishingly slim.

A recording had since emerged of a fearful voice message Sala apparently sent in which he expressed concerns about the single-engine Piper Malibu aircraft he was flying in.

The 28-year-old Argentina-born forward was en route from Nantes in western France to make his debut for Welsh team Cardiff City.

On Thursday, the authorities said they were resuming their search efforts.

"We are commencing a coastal search using the Channel Islands Air Search plane of Burhou, the Casquets, Alderney, the north coast of the Cherbourg Peninsula, north coast of Jersey and then back over Sark," Guernsey police tweeted.

Guernsey police on Thursday resumed the search for the plane carrying Premier League soccer player Emiliano Sala which disappeared over the English Channel. Cardiff City's new signing Sala and the aircraft's pilot, David Ibbotson, have been missing since Monday night and rescuers have said chances of finding either of them alive were almost vanishingly slim.

Guernsey police on Thursday resumed the search for the plane carrying Premier League soccer player Emiliano Sala which disappeared over the English Channel. Cardiff City's new signing Sala and the aircraft's pilot, David Ibbotson, have been missing since Monday night and rescuers have said chances of finding either of them alive were almost vanishingly slim. A recording had since emerged of a fearful voice message Sala apparently sent in which he expressed concerns about the single-engine Piper Malibu aircraft he was flying in. The 28-year-old Argentina-born forward was en route from Nantes in western France to make his debut for Welsh team Cardiff City. On Thursday, the authorities said they were resuming their search efforts. "We are commencing a coastal search using the Channel Islands Air Search plane of Burhou, the Casquets, Alderney, the north coast of the Cherbourg Peninsula, north coast of Jersey and then back over Sark," Guernsey police tweeted.

Guernsey police resume search for missing footballer Emiliano Sala

Cardiff City's record new signing Emiliano Sala expressed concern about his plane shortly before the light aircraft disappeared over the Channel, according to an audio message sent to friends and relatives.

The Argentine striker, signed on Saturday from French club Nantes for a reported fee of 17 million euros ($19.3 million), was flying to Cardiff aboard the plane that disappeared from radar around 20 kilometres (12 miles) north of the island of Guernsey on Monday night.

"I'm on a plane that looks like it's going to fall apart, and I'm leaving for Cardiff," Sala said in a WhatsApp audio message carried by Argentine media.

"If in an hour and a half you have no news from me, I don't know if they will send people to look for me, because they will not find me, you know. Dad, I'm so scared," he added.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cardiff-striker-emiliano-sala-feared-dead-after-suspected-plane-crash-192102">Sala is missing and presumed dead</a> after the single-engine Piper PA-46 Malibu aircraft disappeared.

A 15-hour search Tuesday covering a 1,155 square-mile (3,000 square-kilometre) area in the Channel spotted "a number of floating objects in the water", Guernsey police said.

"We have found no signs of those on board. If they did land on the water, the chances of survival are at this stage, unfortunately, slim," police said.

The search was set to resume at sunrise Wednesday.

French civil aviation authorities had confirmed that 28-year-old Sala "was on board the plane". It is thought there was one other passenger on the aircraft.

Police on Guernsey, which sits just off the north coast of France, said the pilot had requested to lower his altitude shortly before air traffic control in neighbouring Jersey lost contact with the plane.&nbsp;

'Fearing the worst'

One of the rescuers searching for the missing plane earlier admitted they were "fearing the worst", thoughts echoed by Sala's father Horacio.

"Sadly we are fearing the worst... the sea temperature is so cold at the moment," John Fitzgerald, chief officer of Channel Islands Air Search, told AFP.

A tearful Horacio Sala told the press in Progreso, where the player's family lives, that as "the hours go by and I don't know anything, it makes me fear the worst".

"I don't know anything. Nobody spoke to me, not a call from the embassy, the club, nobody," he said. "All I want is for you to find him."

The player's mother, Mercedes, claimed in an interview with Argentine television channel C5N that the plane belonged to Cardiff chairman Mehmet Dalman.

Sala, who had been at Nantes since 2015 and had scored 13 goals in all competitions this season, had signed a three-and-a-half-year contract with relegation-threatened Cardiff subject to receiving international clearance.

"We were very shocked upon hearing the news that the plane had gone missing. We expected Emiliano to arrive last night into Cardiff and today was due to be his first day with the team," the Premier League club's executive director Ken Choo said in a statement.

"We continue to pray for positive news."

Argentine football legend Diego Maradona expressed sadness but said he was hoping the plane had simply gone astray.

"I hope it went to the wrong airport and we find him alive, that's all," he said in an audio message on the Instagram account of journalist Martin Arevalo.

"It's a terrible misfortune when such things happen."

Cardiff called off a training session planned for Tuesday, and stunned supporters gathered outside the club's ground to lay flowers and scarves.

With his former teammates in shock, Nantes had their French Cup tie against third-tier side Entente Sannois Saint-Gratien postponed from Wednesday until Sunday.

Fans hold vigil

Meanwhile, hundreds of fans of his former team gathered for a vigil in the western French city on Tuesday evening, placing flowers, scarves and flags on the water fountain and chanting the striker's name at Place Royale.

"I still have hope, he is a fighter," said Nantes president Waldemar Kita in a tweet published by the Ligue 1 club.

When he put pen to paper at relegation-threatened Cardiff on Saturday, Sala, who also has Italian nationality, said in a statement: "I'm very happy to be here. It gives me great pleasure and I can't wait to start training, meet my new team-mates and get down to work.

"For me it feels special (to be the club's record signing). I have come here wanting to work and to help my team-mates and the club."

Sala's last post on Instagram showed him surrounded by players from Nantes. "La ultima ciao (the last goodbye)," he wrote.

Sala began his footballing career at French club Bordeaux, who he joined in 2010, and had loan spells at other French clubs including Orleans, Niort and Caen.

He joined Nantes in 2015 for one million euros and had scored 42 Ligue 1 goals in three and a half seasons at the Stade de la Beaujoire.

Cardiff City's record new signing Emiliano Sala expressed concern about his plane shortly before the light aircraft disappeared over the Channel, according to an audio message sent to friends and relatives.

Cardiff City's record new signing Emiliano Sala expressed concern about his plane shortly before the light aircraft disappeared over the Channel, according to an audio message sent to friends and relatives. The Argentine striker, signed on Saturday from French club Nantes for a reported fee of 17 million euros ($19.3 million), was flying to Cardiff aboard the plane that disappeared from radar around 20 kilometres (12 miles) north of the island of Guernsey on Monday night. "I'm on a plane that looks like it's going to fall apart, and I'm leaving for Cardiff," Sala said in a WhatsApp audio message carried by Argentine media. "If in an hour and a half you have no news from me, I don't know if they will send people to look for me, because they will not find me, you know. Dad, I'm so scared," he added. Sala is missing and presumed dead after the single-engine Piper PA-46 Malibu aircraft disappeared. A 15-hour search Tuesday covering a 1,155 square-mile (3,000 square-kilometre) area in the Channel spotted "a number of floating objects in the water", Guernsey police said. "We have found no signs of those on board. If they did land on the water, the chances of survival are at this stage, unfortunately, slim," police said. The search was set to resume at sunrise Wednesday. French civil aviation authorities had confirmed that 28-year-old Sala "was on board the plane". It is thought there was one other passenger on the aircraft. Police on Guernsey, which sits just off the north coast of France, said the pilot had requested to lower his altitude shortly before air traffic control in neighbouring Jersey lost contact with the plane. 'Fearing the worst' One of the rescuers searching for the missing plane earlier admitted they were "fearing the worst", thoughts echoed by Sala's father Horacio. "Sadly we are fearing the worst... the sea temperature is so cold at the moment," John Fitzgerald, chief officer of Channel Islands Air Search, told AFP. A tearful Horacio Sala told the press in Progreso, where the player's family lives, that as "the hours go by and I don't know anything, it makes me fear the worst". "I don't know anything. Nobody spoke to me, not a call from the embassy, the club, nobody," he said. "All I want is for you to find him." The player's mother, Mercedes, claimed in an interview with Argentine television channel C5N that the plane belonged to Cardiff chairman Mehmet Dalman. Sala, who had been at Nantes since 2015 and had scored 13 goals in all competitions this season, had signed a three-and-a-half-year contract with relegation-threatened Cardiff subject to receiving international clearance. "We were very shocked upon hearing the news that the plane had gone missing. We expected Emiliano to arrive last night into Cardiff and today was due to be his first day with the team," the Premier League club's executive director Ken Choo said in a statement. "We continue to pray for positive news." Argentine football legend Diego Maradona expressed sadness but said he was hoping the plane had simply gone astray. "I hope it went to the wrong airport and we find him alive, that's all," he said in an audio message on the Instagram account of journalist Martin Arevalo. "It's a terrible misfortune when such things happen." Cardiff called off a training session planned for Tuesday, and stunned supporters gathered outside the club's ground to lay flowers and scarves. With his former teammates in shock, Nantes had their French Cup tie against third-tier side Entente Sannois Saint-Gratien postponed from Wednesday until Sunday. Fans hold vigil Meanwhile, hundreds of fans of his former team gathered for a vigil in the western French city on Tuesday evening, placing flowers, scarves and flags on the water fountain and chanting the striker's name at Place Royale. "I still have hope, he is a fighter," said Nantes president Waldemar Kita in a tweet published by the Ligue 1 club. When he put pen to paper at relegation-threatened Cardiff on Saturday, Sala, who also has Italian nationality, said in a statement: "I'm very happy to be here. It gives me great pleasure and I can't wait to start training, meet my new team-mates and get down to work. "For me it feels special (to be the club's record signing). I have come here wanting to work and to help my team-mates and the club." Sala's last post on Instagram showed him surrounded by players from Nantes. "La ultima ciao (the last goodbye)," he wrote. Sala began his footballing career at French club Bordeaux, who he joined in 2010, and had loan spells at other French clubs including Orleans, Niort and Caen. He joined Nantes in 2015 for one million euros and had scored 42 Ligue 1 goals in three and a half seasons at the Stade de la Beaujoire.

'Dad, I'm so scared,' Cardiff striker Emiliano Sala said in final audio message before his plane went missing

Cardiff City's record signing striker Emiliano Sala was on board a light aircraft that went missing over the English Channel late on Monday.

Following are facts about Sala, who joined the Premier League side from Nantes this week in a deal British media reported was worth about 17 million euros ($19.3 million):

- Born Emiliano Raul Sala Taffarel in Argentina`s Santa Fe Province on October 31, 1990

- Began his playing career as a youth at Argentinian side Club Proyecto Crecer, before heading to France where he signed for Girondins de Bordeaux

- The striker made his debut for the club in 2012 before going on loan to French sides Chamois Niortais and Caen

- He joined Nantes in 2015 and has scored 42 goals for the French Ligue 1 side so far

- Sala had scored 12 goals this season in France`s Ligue 1 to rank fifth among top scorers behind Kylian Mbappe (17), Edinson Cavani (14), Neymar Jr and Nicolas Pepe (13)

Cardiff City's record signing striker Emiliano Sala was on board a light aircraft that went missing over the English Channel late on Monday. Following are facts about Sala, who joined the Premier League side from Nantes this week in a deal British media reported was worth about 17 million euros ($19.

Cardiff City's record signing striker Emiliano Sala was on board a light aircraft that went missing over the English Channel late on Monday. Following are facts about Sala, who joined the Premier League side from Nantes this week in a deal British media reported was worth about 17 million euros ($19.3 million): - Born Emiliano Raul Sala Taffarel in Argentina`s Santa Fe Province on October 31, 1990 - Began his playing career as a youth at Argentinian side Club Proyecto Crecer, before heading to France where he signed for Girondins de Bordeaux - The striker made his debut for the club in 2012 before going on loan to French sides Chamois Niortais and Caen - He joined Nantes in 2015 and has scored 42 goals for the French Ligue 1 side so far - Sala had scored 12 goals this season in France`s Ligue 1 to rank fifth among top scorers behind Kylian Mbappe (17), Edinson Cavani (14), Neymar Jr and Nicolas Pepe (13)

Factbox: Cardiff City striker Emiliano Sala

Cardiff City soccer player Emiliano Sala was on board a light aircraft that lost radar contact over the English channel late on Monday, French police sources said.

British and French coastguards scoured the seas off Guernsey on Tuesday for the single-engine plane after it went missing on its way from Nantes in western France to the Welsh city of Cardiff.

The 28-year-old Argentine forward joined Premier League strugglers Cardiff City from FC Nantes last week for a club record fee of around 17 million euros ($19.32 million). He had played in France since 2012.

Local coastguards were alerted by air traffic control at 20:23 GMT that an aircraft with two people on board had gone missing. Lifeboats and helicopters were sent out but the search was suspended four hours later as weather conditions worsened.

Search teams resumed work on Tuesday morning.

"At this time no trace of the missing aircraft had been found," Guernsey police said.

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It is understood that new Cardiff City signing Emiliano Sala was on the plane that has disappeared while flying over the English Channel <a href="https://t.co/DpomjAbxZQ">https://t.co/DpomjAbxZQ</a> <a href="https://t.co/dLfKXo1Wfl">pic.twitter.com/dLfKXo1Wfl</a>
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FC Nantes and Cardiff city officials did not immediately comment.

Sala had scored 12 league goals in 19 appearances for Nantes in France's Ligue 1 this season before switching this week to Cardiff.

Cardiff City soccer player Emiliano Sala was on board a light aircraft that lost radar contact over the English channel late on Monday, French police sources said.

Cardiff City soccer player Emiliano Sala was on board a light aircraft that lost radar contact over the English channel late on Monday, French police sources said. British and French coastguards scoured the seas off Guernsey on Tuesday for the single-engine plane after it went missing on its way from Nantes in western France to the Welsh city of Cardiff. The 28-year-old Argentine forward joined Premier League strugglers Cardiff City from FC Nantes last week for a club record fee of around 17 million euros ($19.32 million). He had played in France since 2012. Local coastguards were alerted by air traffic control at 20:23 GMT that an aircraft with two people on board had gone missing. Lifeboats and helicopters were sent out but the search was suspended four hours later as weather conditions worsened. Search teams resumed work on Tuesday morning. "At this time no trace of the missing aircraft had been found," Guernsey police said. It is understood that new Cardiff City signing Emiliano Sala was on the plane that has disappeared while flying over the English Channel https://t.co/DpomjAbxZQ pic.twitter.com/dLfKXo1Wfl — Cardiff City Online (@CardiffCityLive) January 22, 2019 × FC Nantes and Cardiff city officials did not immediately comment. Sala had scored 12 league goals in 19 appearances for Nantes in France's Ligue 1 this season before switching this week to Cardiff.

Plane carrying Cardiff City striker Emiliano Sala goes missing over English Channel

Tottenham moved back into second place in the Premier League, six points behind leaders Liverpool, after cruising to a 3-0 win at lowly Cardiff City on Tuesday.

Liverpool face third-placed Manchester City on Thursday night, and City could move back above Spurs if they avoid defeat at the Etihad Stadium.

Spurs, beaten by Wolves at home on Saturday, took just three minutes to get in front in South Wales through the familiar source of captain Harry Kane.

After Kane launched an attack, surging from deep, Kieran Trippier crossed and the England forward had a simple tap-in when the ball ricocheted off Cardiff defender Sean Morrison.

Cardiff manager Neil Warnock said that early goal was a heavy blow: "When we start off like that we shoot ourselves in the foot. All the planning goes out of the window," he told the BBC.

Christian Eriksen then made it 2-0 for Spurs nine minutes later with a clever finish from the edge of the box, although Warnock will be disappointed with the way his defenders backed off and gave the Dane space to wriggle and shoot home.

The game was effectively over in the 26th minute when Son Heung-Min produced a clinical finish with a shot on the turn after being well set-up by Kane. The South Korean has scored 11 goals in his last 12 starts.

Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino praised the way his side seized control of the game early.

"The energy we showed from the beginning was fantastic to dominate the game. We knew that it would be difficult to open the score and we wanted from the beginning to have a high tempo. We found the solution in the first 20 minutes," he told Sky Sports.

"I don't want to see the table. Of course we are in a good position. We need to be consistent. You must be consistent during the whole season," he said.

Pochettino added that he wouldn't let nervousness over the table prevent him from watching Thursday's clash between City and Liverpool, the league's highest-scoring sides.

"I don't care. Of course I will watch, it will be an unbelievable game and I enjoy football," he said.

For his part Warnock suggested that Cardiff, who remain in 16th place three points above the relegation zone, may need to go shopping during the January transfer window.

"Hopefully we can get one or two additions which will help," he said.

Tottenham moved back into second place in the Premier League, six points behind leaders Liverpool, after cruising to a 3-0 win at lowly Cardiff City on Tuesday. Liverpool face third-placed Manchester City on Thursday night, and City could move back above Spurs if they avoid defeat at the Etihad Stadium.

Tottenham moved back into second place in the Premier League, six points behind leaders Liverpool, after cruising to a 3-0 win at lowly Cardiff City on Tuesday. Liverpool face third-placed Manchester City on Thursday night, and City could move back above Spurs if they avoid defeat at the Etihad Stadium. Spurs, beaten by Wolves at home on Saturday, took just three minutes to get in front in South Wales through the familiar source of captain Harry Kane. After Kane launched an attack, surging from deep, Kieran Trippier crossed and the England forward had a simple tap-in when the ball ricocheted off Cardiff defender Sean Morrison. Cardiff manager Neil Warnock said that early goal was a heavy blow: "When we start off like that we shoot ourselves in the foot. All the planning goes out of the window," he told the BBC. Christian Eriksen then made it 2-0 for Spurs nine minutes later with a clever finish from the edge of the box, although Warnock will be disappointed with the way his defenders backed off and gave the Dane space to wriggle and shoot home. The game was effectively over in the 26th minute when Son Heung-Min produced a clinical finish with a shot on the turn after being well set-up by Kane. The South Korean has scored 11 goals in his last 12 starts. Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino praised the way his side seized control of the game early. "The energy we showed from the beginning was fantastic to dominate the game. We knew that it would be difficult to open the score and we wanted from the beginning to have a high tempo. We found the solution in the first 20 minutes," he told Sky Sports. "I don't want to see the table. Of course we are in a good position. We need to be consistent. You must be consistent during the whole season," he said. Pochettino added that he wouldn't let nervousness over the table prevent him from watching Thursday's clash between City and Liverpool, the league's highest-scoring sides. "I don't care. Of course I will watch, it will be an unbelievable game and I enjoy football," he said. For his part Warnock suggested that Cardiff, who remain in 16th place three points above the relegation zone, may need to go shopping during the January transfer window. "Hopefully we can get one or two additions which will help," he said.

Spurs reclaim second place with 3-0 win over Cardiff

Cardiff City manager Neil Warnock said it would be "virtually impossible" for his team to beat Liverpool in the Premier League on Saturday.

Promoted Cardiff, who are 17th in the league table with one win from nine games, travel to Anfield to take on unbeaten Liverpool who are second on goal difference behind Manchester City.

Cardiff beat Fulham 4-2 last weekend to register their first win of the campaign but facing Liverpool at home is a far more daunting prospect because the Merseysiders have not lost a home league match since April 2017.

"It is virtually impossible for any team in the current game (to win at Anfield)," Warnock told a news conference on Friday.

"Their front three is probably the best front three in the world. But we're playing quite well -- I think we can cause them problems. You have to go there and believe you can."

In an ominous sign for Cardiff, Liverpool's forward line of Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino were all on target in their 4-0 Champions League victory over Red Star Belgrade on Wednesday.

"We all have to play to the top of our potential to give them a good game and hope they're having a bit of an off day," Warnock added.

Liverpool's biggest improvement has been at the other end of the pitch, however, where centre-back Virgil van Dijk and Brazil international goalkeeper Alisson have marshalled a defence that has kept seven clean sheets in 13 matches in all competitions.

Warnock revealed he had passed up on the chance to sign Van Dijk years before Liverpool made the Dutchman the most expensive defender in the world when they signed him from Southampton in January.

"I'm delighted (Van Dijk's) playing like he is," Warnock added. "We could have bought him at (Crystal) Palace for six million pounds ($7.7 million) but my chief scout told me he was too slow. I think he's still in a job as well."

With Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson out with a hamstring injury, Van Dijk captained the team in their midweek Champions League win and could be in line to lead the side again on Saturday.

Cardiff City manager Neil Warnock said it would be "virtually impossible" for his team to beat Liverpool in the Premier League on Saturday. Promoted Cardiff, who are 17th in the league table with one win from nine games, travel to Anfield to take on unbeaten Liverpool who are second on goal difference behind Manchester City.

Cardiff City manager Neil Warnock said it would be "virtually impossible" for his team to beat Liverpool in the Premier League on Saturday. Promoted Cardiff, who are 17th in the league table with one win from nine games, travel to Anfield to take on unbeaten Liverpool who are second on goal difference behind Manchester City. Cardiff beat Fulham 4-2 last weekend to register their first win of the campaign but facing Liverpool at home is a far more daunting prospect because the Merseysiders have not lost a home league match since April 2017. "It is virtually impossible for any team in the current game (to win at Anfield)," Warnock told a news conference on Friday. "Their front three is probably the best front three in the world. But we're playing quite well -- I think we can cause them problems. You have to go there and believe you can." In an ominous sign for Cardiff, Liverpool's forward line of Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino were all on target in their 4-0 Champions League victory over Red Star Belgrade on Wednesday. "We all have to play to the top of our potential to give them a good game and hope they're having a bit of an off day," Warnock added. Liverpool's biggest improvement has been at the other end of the pitch, however, where centre-back Virgil van Dijk and Brazil international goalkeeper Alisson have marshalled a defence that has kept seven clean sheets in 13 matches in all competitions. Warnock revealed he had passed up on the chance to sign Van Dijk years before Liverpool made the Dutchman the most expensive defender in the world when they signed him from Southampton in January. "I'm delighted (Van Dijk's) playing like he is," Warnock added. "We could have bought him at (Crystal) Palace for six million pounds ($7.7 million) but my chief scout told me he was too slow. I think he's still in a job as well." With Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson out with a hamstring injury, Van Dijk captained the team in their midweek Champions League win and could be in line to lead the side again on Saturday.

Beating Liverpool 'virtually impossible', says Cardiff boss

Promoted Cardiff City celebrated their first Premier League win of the season after coming from behind to beat fellow top-flight newcomers Fulham 4-2 at home in a rip-roaring clash on Saturday.

The result enabled Cardiff to climb out of the relegation zone into 17th position on five points from nine games, leaping over Fulham on goal difference as the Cottagers dropped to 18th after their worst start to a top-flight season.

Second-half goals from Callum Paterson and Kadeem Harris clinched it for Cardiff after Josh Murphy and Bobby Reid had overturned Andre Schurrle's opener for Fulham and Ryan Sessegnon had levelled for the visitors in a frantic opening period.

Sessegnon was quick to identify poor defending as the cause of Fulham's latest setback, as they stayed the only Premier League side yet to keep a clean sheet this season.

"At times we played well but goals are leaking too much and we need to change that," the 18-year-old winger told the BBC.

"I can't really put my finger on what the problem is, but we need to stick together, believe in ourselves and keep fighting, there's a long way to go."

Cardiff manager Neil Warnock was delighted and praised his team as well as the home crowd.

"It's just a great feeling for everyone at the club," he said. "We persevered and they didn't let the disappointments get them down.

"We are made of stern stuff, the fans are unbelievable as well. In the second half we rolled our sleeves up and said 'this is our season'. I can enjoy my weekend now."

Former Germany striker Schurrle fired Fulham ahead with a superb individual goal before clinical finishing by Murphy and Reid turned the match on its head inside the opening 20 minutes.

Sessegnon equalised with a composed finish before missing a pair of chances either side of halftime which ultimately proved costly for Slavisa Jokanovic's side who have conceded 25 goals, more than any of their Premier League rivals.

Paterson pounced on a half-cleared cross to put Cardiff back in front before late substitute Harris sealed the contest in the 87th minute, sliding in at the far post to tuck the ball past goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli.

Jokanovic was disappointed but urged his players to keep their heads up.

"We are frustrated after this kind of defeat," he said.

"We have so many defensive problems but we have to find a solution. We must be brave and keep going to fix our mistakes."

Promoted Cardiff City celebrated their first Premier League win of the season after coming from behind to beat fellow top-flight newcomers Fulham 4-2 at home in a rip-roaring clash on Saturday.

Promoted Cardiff City celebrated their first Premier League win of the season after coming from behind to beat fellow top-flight newcomers Fulham 4-2 at home in a rip-roaring clash on Saturday. The result enabled Cardiff to climb out of the relegation zone into 17th position on five points from nine games, leaping over Fulham on goal difference as the Cottagers dropped to 18th after their worst start to a top-flight season. Second-half goals from Callum Paterson and Kadeem Harris clinched it for Cardiff after Josh Murphy and Bobby Reid had overturned Andre Schurrle's opener for Fulham and Ryan Sessegnon had levelled for the visitors in a frantic opening period. Sessegnon was quick to identify poor defending as the cause of Fulham's latest setback, as they stayed the only Premier League side yet to keep a clean sheet this season. "At times we played well but goals are leaking too much and we need to change that," the 18-year-old winger told the BBC. "I can't really put my finger on what the problem is, but we need to stick together, believe in ourselves and keep fighting, there's a long way to go." Cardiff manager Neil Warnock was delighted and praised his team as well as the home crowd. "It's just a great feeling for everyone at the club," he said. "We persevered and they didn't let the disappointments get them down. "We are made of stern stuff, the fans are unbelievable as well. In the second half we rolled our sleeves up and said 'this is our season'. I can enjoy my weekend now." Former Germany striker Schurrle fired Fulham ahead with a superb individual goal before clinical finishing by Murphy and Reid turned the match on its head inside the opening 20 minutes. Sessegnon equalised with a composed finish before missing a pair of chances either side of halftime which ultimately proved costly for Slavisa Jokanovic's side who have conceded 25 goals, more than any of their Premier League rivals. Paterson pounced on a half-cleared cross to put Cardiff back in front before late substitute Harris sealed the contest in the 87th minute, sliding in at the far post to tuck the ball past goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli. Jokanovic was disappointed but urged his players to keep their heads up. "We are frustrated after this kind of defeat," he said. "We have so many defensive problems but we have to find a solution. We must be brave and keep going to fix our mistakes."

Cardiff beat Fulham 4-2 for first league win of the season

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola returns to the touchline for the Premier League champions' visit to Cardiff City looking for his team to recover from a shock midweek home defeat to Lyon.

The City manager, serving a one-match UEFA suspension for being sent to the stands in last season's quarter-final defeat to Liverpool, watched in horror from the stands as a dismal first-half display led to defeat against the French side.

After accumulating 100 points in the Premier League last season, winning the Champions League for the first time in City's history is the next goal for Guardiola.

Yet, an unexpected defeat to begin their European campaign exposed City's failure to add reinforcements to arguably the only area of the pitch where they lack genuine strength in depth.

Brazilian midfielder Fernandinho has been inspirational for City in his five seasons in the Premier League but he was at fault in the build-up to both Lyon goals on Wednesday.

The 33-year-old may be due a break in the Welsh capital this weekend having played every minute of City’s seven games so far in the new campaign

But Guardiola has no natural replacement after missing out on his pursuit of Chelsea midfielder Jorginho, who instead chose to follow his former Napoli boss Maurizio Sarri to Stamford Bridge.

City’s failure to land an alternative has seen Guardiola enter the new season short of cover for a crucial position in his 4-3-3 system.

Instead, City spent a club record fee on further strengthening their attacking options, signing Algerian winger Riyad Mahrez from Leicester for £60 million (67.5m euros).

Despite the loss of Belgian playmaker Kevin De Bruyne through injury, Mahrez has started just two league games so far and not yet completed a full 90 minutes for Guardiola.

Magnificent in Leicester’s title-winning season of 2015-16, Mahrez is not the first new signing to have required time to adapt to Guardiola’s demanding ways.

But, in hindsight, a different type of midfield player might have been a better acquisition for City this summer even if his manager has no doubts that he will prove a long-term success at his club.

"Riyad is going to come back to the same form we saw when he was with Leicester," insisted Guardiola, citing Bernardo Silva's stunning start to the campaign after a year to bed into City's system.

Silva scored his side's goal in midweek and is likely to retain his place, but Guardiola is expected to make changes in his search for a reaction against a Cardiff side still looking for their first victory since returning to the top flight.

Sergio Aguero and Leroy Sane are expected to return after impressing off the bench against Lyon.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola returns to the touchline for the Premier League champions' visit to Cardiff City looking for his team to recover from a shock midweek home defeat to Lyon.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola returns to the touchline for the Premier League champions' visit to Cardiff City looking for his team to recover from a shock midweek home defeat to Lyon. The City manager, serving a one-match UEFA suspension for being sent to the stands in last season's quarter-final defeat to Liverpool, watched in horror from the stands as a dismal first-half display led to defeat against the French side. After accumulating 100 points in the Premier League last season, winning the Champions League for the first time in City's history is the next goal for Guardiola. Yet, an unexpected defeat to begin their European campaign exposed City's failure to add reinforcements to arguably the only area of the pitch where they lack genuine strength in depth. Brazilian midfielder Fernandinho has been inspirational for City in his five seasons in the Premier League but he was at fault in the build-up to both Lyon goals on Wednesday. The 33-year-old may be due a break in the Welsh capital this weekend having played every minute of City’s seven games so far in the new campaign But Guardiola has no natural replacement after missing out on his pursuit of Chelsea midfielder Jorginho, who instead chose to follow his former Napoli boss Maurizio Sarri to Stamford Bridge. City’s failure to land an alternative has seen Guardiola enter the new season short of cover for a crucial position in his 4-3-3 system. Instead, City spent a club record fee on further strengthening their attacking options, signing Algerian winger Riyad Mahrez from Leicester for £60 million (67.5m euros). Despite the loss of Belgian playmaker Kevin De Bruyne through injury, Mahrez has started just two league games so far and not yet completed a full 90 minutes for Guardiola. Magnificent in Leicester’s title-winning season of 2015-16, Mahrez is not the first new signing to have required time to adapt to Guardiola’s demanding ways. But, in hindsight, a different type of midfield player might have been a better acquisition for City this summer even if his manager has no doubts that he will prove a long-term success at his club. "Riyad is going to come back to the same form we saw when he was with Leicester," insisted Guardiola, citing Bernardo Silva's stunning start to the campaign after a year to bed into City's system. Silva scored his side's goal in midweek and is likely to retain his place, but Guardiola is expected to make changes in his search for a reaction against a Cardiff side still looking for their first victory since returning to the top flight. Sergio Aguero and Leroy Sane are expected to return after impressing off the bench against Lyon.

Guardiola returns as Man City seek to restore order at Cardiff

Cardiff City have&nbspsigned winger Josh Murphy from Norwich City on a four-year contract. The&nbspthe clubs said on Tuesday.

Murphy, who scored seven goals in 41 appearances for Norwich City in the second-tier Championship last campaign, is Cardiff manager Neil Warnock`s first signing in the close season.

The announcement came&nbspthe Bluebirds prepare to play in the Premier League next term.

"Josh is a player I`ve watched for a number of years now and he`s always excited me when he runs with the ball," Warnock said https://www.cardiffcityfc.co.uk/news/2018/june/done-deal--josh-murphy-signs-for-city on Cardiff`s website.

"I think he's at the right age now with his best still to come...He`s been my number one target since the end of last season."

Financial details have not been disclosed but British media reported that Cardiff paid about 10 million pounds ($13.38 million) for the 23-year-old Murphy.

Cardiff City have&nbspsigned winger Josh Murphy from Norwich City on a four-year contract. The&nbspthe clubs said on Tuesday. Murphy, who scored seven goals in 41 appearances for Norwich City in the second-tier Championship last campaign, is Cardiff manager Neil Warnock`s first signing in the close season. The announcement came&nbspthe Bluebirds prepare to play in the Premier League next term. "Josh is a player I`ve watched for a number of years now and he`s always excited me when he runs with the ball," Warnock said https://www.cardiffcityfc.co.uk/news/2018/june/done-deal--josh-murphy-signs-for-city on Cardiff`s website. "I think he's at the right age now with his best still to come...He`s been my number one target since the end of last season." Financial details have not been disclosed but British media reported that Cardiff paid about 10 million pounds ($13.38 million) for the 23-year-old Murphy.

Cardiff City signs winger Josh Murphy

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