Music
Rex Features
McElderry, who beat Murs in the final of the reality show earlier this month, lost out on the Christmas number one spot to heavy rock band Rage Against The Machine following an online campaign.
Murs said: "It was like a battle, wasn't it, to the end? I was actually gutted for him.
"I think he deserved it. It's a shame really because I think he's the only X Factor winner now that hasn't got number one. I think that's a bit of a shame.
"I just think, Rage Against The Machine - a great song but is it really a song for Christmas? No. That's the thing.
"I'm gutted for Joe. I really am. I mean that could have been me and I'm sure I would have been gutted and I'm sure Joe is. I'm sure deep inside he is."
McElderry's 'The Climb' finished at number two on the Christmas chart but is expected to reach the top spot on Sunday.
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