X Factor contestant Rikki Loney has admitted that he gave his all at the last stage of X Factor auditions, as he genuinely feels that this is his last chance.

Rikki made it to bootcamp last year and was put through to Simon Cowell’s final six boys. However he was later dropped and replaced by Liam Payne.

Rikki told The Sun: “I went to Marrakech to give it my all.

“I was confident about going through as I gave the best performance I could give.

“I thought to myself, ‘This is my last opportunity and if I don’t give it my best now, I’m never going to give it’.”

He added: “If it wasn’t for the fans last year I don’t think I’d have come back.

“I got great support when I got put out and that made me try again.

“I think the rejection makes you stronger – and makes you want it even more.

“I just couldn’t let this go. With the knockbacks that I’ve had, I’m now thriving.

“Somehow I’ve managed to stay positive and it’s paying off.”

Rikki has the backing of the loyal Scottish fans, most likely the same ones who supported Leon Jackson to win the show two years ago.

He laughed:

“This is a mad experience – so exciting. I’m really proud to be here.

“To be the only Scot is something else.

“It’s great to hear all the good stuff, it keeps you going.

“My mum and dad have told me about all the support from people in Scotland.

“So I want to make everyone back home proud.”