Michelle McManus has rejected Elton John's criticism of The X Factor.

The Pop Idol winner is unhappy after Elton highlighted her lack of success and slammed show producers for treating young hopefuls badly.

"They're given an awful sense of stardom and pressure straight away but are only successful until the next series," he complained. "The record companies sell a lot of records and those people are gone. It's f***ing cruel. Look at Michelle McManus. She's a really good singer and now she's forgotten."

However Michelle told The Mirror: "I found it a really positive experience and a great opportunity. I've got new management now and my own radio show. Plus I'm getting stuck into my second album."