X Factor’s Nicole Scherzinger ‘MESMIRIZED’ by returning singer Emily Middlemas – and makes dig at Simon Cowell

RETURNING X Factor hopeful Emily Middlemas had judge Nicole Scherzinger "ENTRANCED" with her take on a Stevie Wonder classic - before the Pussycat Doll took a swipe at Simon Cowell for not being chosen for the panel when the singer starred the first time around.

The brunette blast onto the stage with her white guitar - prompting Simon to recall her stint on the show two years ago.

The Scot, now 17, made it all the way to the Judge's Houses stage where then-judge Cheryl decided she wasn't ready for the live shows.

After declaring she was "a bit heartbroken" Emily got stuck into a unique take on Master Blaster and had American Nicole transfixed.

Following her acoustic version, Nicole gushed: "I'm enchanted by you. I find you mesmerising.

"I think you're a little find."

Her kind comments came shortly after she took a swipe at the show's Mr Nasty and quipped: "Unfortunately I didn't get to meet you a few years ago - because Simon didn't have me back."

It seems the chart-topper may also have been taking a sly swipe at Cheryl, who made her brief return to the talent show last year.

Meanwhile Simon revealed he was pleased Emily had given the show a second go.

He said: "It does take guts to come back.

"I think I've begun to know who Emily is - and I think I like you more."

X Factor fans also showed they were supporting the show reject and took to Twitter to comment on her return.

One wrote: "OMG this girl is on," followed by three fire Emoji icons.

Another added: "Love Emily," while one went as far as to say: "Money on Emily to win X Factor."

A super-fan gushed: "Ahh Emily middlemas is on X factor again I like her," and another simply couldn't keep their excitement hidden and enthused: "Oh my god I can't explain how excited I am to see Emily Middlemas on X Factor tonight, I loved her so much in 2014."

The judges - minus Sharon Osbourne who was absent from the auditions - swiftly voted the pretty teenager through to the next stage.

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