Former Pop Idol winner Will Young has claimed the X Factor group song is not performed live on a Sunday night.

Will was defending Cheryl Cole’s performance on the show when he told MSN:

“I think there’s a very mixed reaction to different people whether they mime or sing live, some people get away with it – I’m not entirely convinced the contestants sing live on the Sunday shows in the group thing but people don’t comment on that.”

He added: “I think Cheryl can do no wrong in my eyes. So it’s just different people for different things.

“But Cheryl did a great performance. I don’t think it really matters. It’s showbiz.”

The X Factor judges are currently picking their final acts for this years live shows and The Sun has reported that former Pop Idol Will Young is assisting Cheryl Cole in choosing hers.

The pair alighted to Morocco to do the task, while Dannii and Kylie are doing their selecting in Dubai.

Next week Simon Cowell will pick his final three over-25 acts in Los Angeles, while Louis Walsh will choose the final groups in Tuscany.

Former Pop Idol winner, Will Young will guest star on this years X Factor series despite a long running feud with judge, Simon Cowell.

Will first developed a dislike for Simon when he performed on Pop Idol in 2002 only to have the music moghul brand him as “distinctly average.”

Will has also made it clear that he is no big fan of Louis Walsh either, saying:

“I just don’t think he’s a very clever person.”

A music industry source told The Sun: “Will doesn’t like Simon and Louis. However, it was this kind of show that gave him his career, he’s not about to turn his back on it.”

Will previously told us he will kiss and make up with Cowell, saying: “Simon and I exchanged a few cross words at the time but I have nothing but respect for what he has done bringing the show on.”

Will Young has revealed that he would love to take part in Strictly Come Dancing if his career ever hit the skids.

The popstar told the Daily Star: “I absolutely love the show and almost wish my career was going in another direction so I got the call. I would do it in an instant. I love watching it before I go out on a Saturday night.

“Although I suppose it’s a good thing I haven’t been asked yet. Maybe in a few years time – if I take a break from music – I’ll have time to do it. It looks like such a laugh.”

Young also revealed that he things former S Club 7 star, Rachel Stevens will win the show.

“Rachel is doing great,” he commented. “She could win. I’m watching her with interest as we used to share the same management company.”