Simon Cowell has admitted that he is worried that his most promising X Factor act won’t be able to win the show.

“There’s still something that bothers me because historically girls don’t win these competitions,” Cowell explained. “I’ve seen this happen before. When you vote for someone like Leona it’s like you’ve had a hand in her career. You’ve helped launch somebody who may do very well. Just as easily you can snuff it out.”

However, despite Simon doubting her chances, many of the people watching seem to be backing Leona, and that group includes top boyband Westlife. After meeting Leona during show rehearsals this week they stated:

“We’ve done a duet with Mariah Carey in the past but I think if Leona was singing Mariah’s part she’d fit in well,” Shane Filan admitted. “She could be up there with Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, any of them.”