Fulham boss Claudio Ranieri has spoken of his former Nantes striker Emiliano Sala.

Ranieri worked at Nantes with the striker, who was on a light aircraft that went missing over the Channel Islands on Monday.

Guernsey Police said there was "no trace" of the flight on Tuesday before suspending the search for the night.

"The world of football will be united in wishing for some positive news," Ranieri said.

Cardiff signed Argentine forward Sala, 28, for a reported £15m on Saturday from French Ligue 1 club Nantes, where he was leading scorer last season under Ranieri's management.

"He's a fantastic footballer who always gave his best when we worked together in France," the former Leicester manager said.

"Like everyone else, I was devastated to hear the news this morning that Emiliano was on board the aircraft.

"Emiliano is a wonderful character. Knowing him as a person, he's a fighter.

"In the meantime, I - along with the Nantes and Fulham families - pray for Emiliano and his family."