Simon Cowell explains why Ayda Field is the new X Factor judge

Simon Cowell has explained his decision to sign up Ayda Williams for The X Factor.

Ayda, her husband Robbie Williams and Louis Tomlinson will be joining Simon on the panel, it was officially announced this week.

They appeared together for the first time on Tuesday evening at a press conference in London.

Ayda’s appointment to the panel has confused X Factor fans but Simon is sure it will work.

He said yesterday: “Ayda is the rock because Robbie can be a bit nuts and she’s also so passionate about music.

“She’s passionate about people and people doing well and has an optimism and I’ve tried to make an optimistic panel. I’ve never felt so excited.”

Ayda, best known to UK viewers as a Loose Women panellist, said: “I’m here to find some great talent and make some great TV. I want to help someone achieve their dreams.

“If it wasn’t a challenge it wouldn’t be so fun. I’m excited to be the underdog and give the boys a run for their money.”

Ayda added: “On a professional level I’ve auditioned for years so I know the highs and lows. I know what it takes to help people achieve their dreams. It’s all about the auditionees, it’s an organic process. The fact I get to work with Rob and against him is fantastic!”

Meanwhile, One Direction’s Louis Tomlinson has assured fans that him joining the show won’t put his music at risk.

Louis said: “The X Factor for me made a lot of sense. Development of artists is something I’ve been interested in for a long time. Having been on the show myself I know first-hand that the live shows are like nothing else you would experience. I’m looking forward to guiding auditonees through the process.”

The X Factor will start on TV later this year on ITV.