After publicly sacking Cheryl Cole from X Factor USA last year, Simon Cowell has claimed he would be more than happy for her to return to the UK version of the show when it returns later this year.

He said – in a statement which would no doubt throw fear into Tulisa and Kelly’s heart - “She could be a panellist again if she wanted to - 100 per cent.”

The music mogul then joked, “I think she probably misses me.”

He also revealed, “I regret what happened because Cheryl was a close friend. I've always believed we'll end up doing something together again.”

Meanwhile, Simon has reportedly angered ITV bosses after he admitted he ‘hadn’t decided’ if any of last year’s judging panel would return for the new series.

A inside source told the Daily Mirror, “It isn't Simon's decision - he has overstepped the mark.”

Simon overstepped the mark? NEVER!