CHERRIES players paid tribute to Emiliano Sala ahead of the Premier League trip to Cardiff (5.30pm).

Sala and pilot David Ibbotson have been missing since the plane carrying them disappeared over the English Channel, two days after the Argentine striker had completed a £15million move to the Bluebirds.

A minute’s silence was observed for the pair ahead of Cherries’ clash with Chelsea at Vitality Stadium on Wednesday.

And the Dorset club’s players expressed their sympathies ahead of what is set to be an emotionally-charged night at Cardiff City Stadium.

Dan Gosling said: “First and foremost, it’s going to be very emotional. It’s so sad what has happened.

“That could have been anyone on that plane. If you had a move lined up, you would go and not think anything of it.

“All of a sudden something so tragic happens like that. It makes you forget football and realise there are a lot more important things than sport.

“It’s destroyed a family and a team but, hopefully, everyone will come together on Saturday. I’m sure they will and will pay their respects.”

David Brooks said: “It’s devastating for the player and his family. To finally get his move to the Premier League and for that to happen, is terrible.

“You can’t express enough sympathy for him and his family. We will pray for him that he may be found.”

Chris Mepham added: “I know it’s going to be hard because what happened was so sad and so tragic.

"There will be a different atmosphere. It will be emotional before the game.”