Louis Tomlinson hugs Anthony Russell during X Factor rehearsal after he fell ill before semi-finals

LOUIS Tomlinson comforted Anthony Russell with a bear hug after the singer fell ill ahead of the semi-finals.

Anthony, 28, made it to rehearsals today and photos from the studio reveal Louis, 24, was extremely relieved to see him and squeezed the singer, after it was feared the Liverpudlian, could miss the finals.

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Anthony told pals his voice was 'ruined' and he was convinced it would cost him a place in the final.

Sources also revealed to The Sun that he'd barely sung a note in the run up to tonight's high stakes semi-final.

A source close to Anthony said: "While X Factor is gruelling on every singer's voice, Anthony's issues have been a real cause for concern in this crucial week.

"He revealed to fans earlier this week he was on voice rest, but that didn't tell the whole story.

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Anthony hinted as his issues on social media when he revealed he was on voice rest

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"He's either not been singing during vocal sessions or rehearsals or has missed them altogether.

"Anthony has a passionate fanbase, but knows he has to deliver a killer performance at the weekend as well.

"He's worried and has almost convinced himself he's going home."

Anthony hinted at his issues when he shared a picture of himself holding a piece of paper saying "voice rest" on Instagram on Wednesday.

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He said: "Back on voice rest this week people!!! Anyone tryna ring me pls message me instead!!

"Need to make sure my voice is ready to smashhh it this week!!! I’ve promised [mentor Louis Tomlinson] I’ll be on mute and I mean it!!! I won’t let u down lad!!!"

An X Factor insider confirmed Anthony had been voice rest for the duration of this week.

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They said he was able to sing during an ABBA masterclass with Benny Andersson, 71, which will be show on Saturday and was singing at final rehearsals today.

Bookies' expected Anthony to make the final three before his vocal issues, alongside Dalton Harris and Scarlett Lee.

He will perform ABBA's The Name of the Game and Bon Jovi's Livin' on a Prayer on Saturday.