X Factor boss Simon Cowell has said co-star Cheryl Fernandez-Versini is a better judge for being away from the show for a few years.

He said Cheryl made a good team with fellow judge and former Spice Girl Mel B.

Speaking at the launch of the new series in central London, Cowell said: "They are very good judges and I think they've got better - certainly Cheryl has got better and knows what she's talking about."