A BODY has been found in the wreckage of the plane carrying Cardiff City player Emiliano Sala and pilot David Ibbotson.

It was spotted in video footage taken of the plane on the sea bed.

The UK Air Accident Investigation Branch confirmed: "Tragically, in video footage from the ROV (remotely operated vehicle), one occupant is visible amidst the wreckage.

"The AAIB is now considering the next steps, in consultation with the families of the pilot and passenger, and the police."

The Piper Malibu N264DB plane that had been carrying 28-year-old Sala and pilot Mr Ibbotson, 59, disappeared over the English Channel on January 21 after leaving Nantes in France for Cardiff.

READ MORE: Sala's father's heartbreaking words after the wreckage was found

Two vessels, including one commissioned by the AAIB, using sonar had been taking part in a fresh search covering an area of around four square nautical miles.

Marine scientist David Mearns, the director of Blue Water Recoveries, led a team on the search vessel FPV Morven while the UK Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) also sent a team aboard its the Geo Ocean III.

The privately-funded operation on behalf of the Sala family was made possible after a campaign raised more than £260,000 to pay for it.