Simon Cowell has spoken out about James Arthur saying that he should have been told to “shut up”.

James won the X Factor back in 2012 and was signed to Cowell’s Syco label but has since come under scrutiny after performing a rap that contained homophobic lyrics.

Cowell said: "I think James, unfortunately, has had so many issues with what he has done publicly – which is a real issue with me.

"Somebody should have told him to shut up and just put the records out."

James has made a public apology about his behaviour saying "There's been incredible highs paired with some terrible lows. I've made a few very silly mistakes."

Simon will be kept busy this year with his return to the UK version of the X Factor as well as recently announcing that Cheryl Cole will also be joining him.