Cheryl Cole has reported that she will “shake up” the X Factor now that she is returning as a judge.

The singer confirmed her return to the show last week and has already been in talks with show boss Simon Cowell over ways that they can spice up the flagging show.

According to The Sun, Cole has suggested that Cowell get rid of each judge having their own category and instead each one having one boy, one girl, one over-25 and a group.

An insider said: “Cheryl has been very vocal about ideas and changes that could liven things up.

“It's far too early to say what if any changes might be made. All aspects of format are being looked at to make the best show possible.”

As well returning to the X Factor, Cole has also been concentrating on working on new music.

She said in an interview: “I just took this time and partied and have just been me and normal for the past six months.

“Then I started recording the new album and that's almost done. There's no delay on the album. I've got things in the pipeline."