Gary Barlow has admitted that he thinks Marcus Collins’ performing experience is helping him succeed on The X Factor.

The Liverpudlian singer is 23 years old and before auditioning for the ITV show, performed in various clubs and pubs and even as former X Factor group Eton Road’s lead singer for a while.

Speaking on The Xtra Factor his mentor confessed that all that experience and the fact that he is a few years old than most of the other contestants, gives Marcus a distinct advantage.

When asked what set’s him apart from the others, Barlow said:

I think it is experience. He’s a little bit older than everyone else and I think age is good.

Gary added:

Marcus is an all round entertainer, he’s a great vocalist, he’s also a lovely guy. He’s great to work with, he’s never any problem, he’s in and out of my dressing room all evening, he’s great fun.

You can read more about tonight’s results show and Janet Devlin’s elimination here but tell us below, do you think Marcus has what it takes to win? Leave your comments below.