The search for Emiliano Sala is no longer seen as a rescue operation.

The Channel Islands Air Search stated that it is now a recovery, not a rescue mission.

The 28-year-old striker was on board a private plane going from Nantes to Cardiff, when it reportedly crashed somewhere in the English Channel.

Around 280 square miles were searched, but nothing has been found of the plane or any survivors.

"The search is ongoing and a decision whether to continue will be taken later today," a police spokesman said to Sky Sports.

"I think very much it is that sort of recovery stage now," said chief officer John Fitzgerald.

"It's trying to find parts of the aircraft, whatever is floating on the surface."