MacDonald sceptical over Burke's future

Amy MacDonald has warned that X Factor winner Alexandra Burke may not have a long-term future in the music industry.

The Scottish singer claimed that Burke is too similar to other artists and will only be used to make quick cash for Simon Cowell.

"I have heard Alexandra Burke but I don't think she is any different to Leona Lewis," MacDonald told the Daily Record. "I thought the whole point of that show was getting someone different but she seems the same as anyone else. There are so many people who already exist and can do it better so I don't see the point of it.

"It would be much better if they tried to encourage them to learn instruments or write songs but it's clear this is a quick way to make some money for Simon Cowell."

The 21-year-old star criticised the programme's 2007 winner Leon Jackson last year after he pulled out of a Hogmanay appearance. Jackson later hit back at the singer for cancelling some of her own tour dates.

Reflecting on the feud, MacDonald explained: "I've had no more than a few days off in the past 10 months. He was cancelling his first gig. I think his comment was a bit misguided. He was obviously encouraged to say those things so I won't take it to heart."