Louis Walsh has predicted that Cheryl Cole will return to the X Factor this year.

The Girls Aloud star left the British version of the hit talent show in 2011, to join the panel for Simon Cowell’s new American version. However, after attending just a few auditions she was sacked and replaced by Nicole Scherzinger and later Simon admitted that it seemed like she had lost her energy, buzz and passion for the show.

Cheryl’s manager Will.i.am recently insisted that his protege will not be affiliated with Cowell ever again and admitted that in fact, he wants her to perform and possibly assist him as a judge on rival BBC show The Voice when it launches this spring.

But Louis Walsh thinks Simon might still get his way and after the music mogul recently admitted that he would have Cole back on his ITV show in the blink of an eye, Walsh told The Mirror that he thinks she may agree to a comeback this May.

He explained:

“I’ll tell you who the panel will be. It will be Gary Barlow, Louis Walsh, Tulisa and perhaps Cheryl Cole.

“She could be back. I’m not saying she definitely will but I’d love to see her.”

Kelly Rowland is reportedly leaving the ITV show

Gary Barlow is said to be returning for the 2012 series, as is Tulisa Contostavlos, though not without a substantial payrise each.

Kelly Rowland is the name missing from Louis’ list and his exclusion of the American star seems to cement rumours that she has been axed by Simon Cowell. He was said to be unimpressed by her level of commitment to the show and by her connection with the audience and told the Destiny’s Child singer that she would not be required for a second series.

It was reported yesterday that Simon is also considering English hitmaker Estelle as a replacement for Kelly, if Cheryl won’t come on board.

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