It is almost a forgone conclusion that this years X Factor winner will also land a number one Christmas single, and in line to achieive this goal is opera singer, Rhydian Roberts.

The Daily Mail newspaper has reported that bookies have given the riddler odds of 4-11 to steal the top title, putting him in an even stronger position than last year’s winner Leona Lewis at the same point in the competition.

Ladbrokes spokesman Nick Weinberg said: “That is despite the field being stronger a year ago.

“Rhydian has talent but he also benefits from the weakness of his rivals. He has had things all his own way in recent weeks.”