Cowell 'wants Joe to win X Factor'

Simon Cowell has reportedly decided that he wants Joe McElderry to win The X Factor this year.

According to The Sun, the music mogul urged his fellow judges to influence voters by giving McElderry extra praise in Saturday's show.

However, Cowell's decision to back the 18-year-old singer has allegedly angered his own remaining acts Danyl Johnson and Olly Murs.

A source told the newspaper: "Joe is the winner in Simon's eyes. He's been bigging up Joe when the judges are around.

"The others are not happy. But the bottom line with Simon is, 'Who will sell records?'."

McElderry, who made it through to the semi-final last night, won support from the panel with performances of 'Could It Be Magic' and 'Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word' at the weekend.

> Cowell 'picks winner's song for Joe'