Does Robbie Williams have the X Factor?

Robbie Williams had two appearances on the X Factor in 2009, but it is rumoured that he could be given a more permanent slot on the series this year.

The former Take That singer was heavily criticised when he made his comeback on the talent show, singing a track from his album, Reality Killed The Video Star. He then performed again alongside Olly Murs in the final.

But the 36-year-old is now being tipped to fill in for Dannii Minogue on the judging panel. The Aussie star will not be able to attend some of the audition stages this summer, as she is due to give birth to her first child with partner Kris Smith.

The Rock DJ is now the bookies favourite to replace her, joining fellow judges Simon Cowell, Louis Walsh and Cheryl Cole. Other names in the frame inclue ex-American Idol panelist Paula Abdul, Boyzone's Ronan Keating and Spice Girl Mel B.

But Dannii Minogue has dismissed reports that she is not returning to the show. She took to her Twitter page, telling fans: "No truth in me being axed at all." A spokesperson for The X Factor also insisted: "Anything written about the judges is complete and utter speculation."