X Factor fans think Benji Matthews should return instead of Sam Black

X Factor fans are rather unhappy with the decision to bring back Sam Black to the show.

Following the news that Anthony Russell has quit the competition due to personal reasons, this week it was confirmed that Sam Black would rejoin the competition for Judges’ Houses tonight.

It was a bit of a surprise move given Sam had never even made it as far as the Six Chair Challenge.

Sam had been eliminated from the show by the judges at the bootcamp stages, after which he proposed to his girlfriend on stage.

Explaining his decision, Boys’ mentor Louis said earlier in the week: “I had to think for a long time who could take the place.

“Sam had a great reaction from the British public when his audition aired. So I re-watched it and realised we missed a trick not putting him through at Boot Camp.

“He has that retro 60s style viewers will love. He’s really likeable and talented and I can’t wait to hear more.”

But many X Factor fans think Benji Matthews – who was the last contestant eliminated from the Six Chair Challenge – should have been the one brought back.

@HausofDylan95 questioned on Twitter: “Why on earth is Sam Black replacing Anthony at judges houses he didn’t even get past bootcamp.. it should be BENJI #XFactor”

Another raged: “#xfactor so AnthonyRussel is not in Louis group now,but instead replacing him with benji, it’s Sam black who didn’t even get past bootcamp?”

A third added: “NO! As much as I loved Sam and was sad to see him go it’s not right that he completely skipped a round? That seat should be Benji’s 100%”

And a fourth concluded: “Why is Sam Black replacing Anthony Russel instead of benji Matthews?!!!! Benji should be still in the X factor, end of story.”

Sam said he was “overwhelmed” to have been invited back.

He wrote on Twitter: “Guys I’m seeing all your tweets thank you so much for the support I’m so overwhelmed right now. I’ve been given this amazing opportunity which of course I am going to take.

“I respect @GregorColeman and Benji so much they are immensely talented and I wish them all the best ❤️❤️”

Sam joins Leon Mallett, Lloyd Macey, Jack Mason, Aidan Martin and Spencer Sutherland at the boys’ judges’ houses with Louis and guest judge Mika this evening.

Find out who gets through to the LIVE SHOWS during the judges’ houses when The X Factor 2017 airs Sunday evening at 7PM.