Louis Walsh has admitted that the last series of The X Factor “wasn’t really great” – but that Simon Cowell is “fighting” to return it to top form this year.

The judge is returning with Sharon Osbourne, Nicole Scherzinger and Simon to the ITV singing contest.

Last year’s panel featured Rita Ora, Nick Grimshaw, Cheryl Fernandez-Versini and Simon.

Show judge Louis Walsh attending an X Factor 2016 launch
Show judge Louis Walsh attending The X Factor 2016 launch (Ian West)

Louis told the Press Association: “I wanted to come back. Simon wanted me back and the show wasn’t really good last year.

“The ratings weren’t good. And it wasn’t much fun. I watched it at home and it wasn’t like the old X Factor.

“It’s a family entertainment show and you need people who like working together, who are fun and enjoy it.”

He added: “Simon is always fighting and always wants the best. With Sharon, Nicole and me he’s got the best.

“The panel is better than ever. Off camera we’re all best friends.”

He said it was perfectly understandable that Simon could not make Thursday’s launch of the show – which begins on Saturday – blaming his age.

“Simon’s doing America’s Got Talent. Come on, at his age he can’t be doing all those air miles!” he said.