Cheryl Cole confirms return to The X Factor

Cheryl Cole has confirmed that she is returning to The X Factor.

The Girls Aloud star revealed on Twitter that she will appear on this year’s series of the ITV talent show.

Alongside a picture of her and fellow judge Simon Cowell, Cole posted on her Instagram: “GUESS WHAT!!.. I’m baaaacccckkkkk!!!! #iMayActuallyRingHisNec #XFactor2014”

“I’m very happy and excited to be returning to The X Factor. I’m inspired and ready to find new talent and potential popstars. It’s going to be a fun series,” she added.

“I am so happy that Cheryl has agreed to join The X Factor again,” said Cowell.

“The last time we worked together in the UK was incredible and produced some really successful artists. Obviously the plan is to do the same again… so it’s back to work!”

Cowell had previously tweeted: “It’s official. Cheryl is back.”

He added to fans: “Be careful what you wish for!”

The 54-year-old went on to praise Cole’s credentials, saying that she is a “brilliant judge of talent”.

Rumours of Cole’s return to the judging panel have been circulating for months, but intensified following Cowell’s return to the UK series last month.

Cheryl last appeared as a judge on The X Factor in 2010, alongside Cowell, Louis Walsh and Dannii Minogue.