Simon Cowell was forced to come out and defend the X Factor today amongst growing criticism from viewers over Sunday’s results show.

In an exclusive interview in The Sun, Simon insisted the show had done nothing wrong.

Simon told the newspaper: “We haven’t done anything wrong. All the artists knew there was going to be a sing-off. Mary and Cher were told last Monday to prepare a song for a sing-off if necessary.”

He explained to the tabloid:”I genuinely do not know the exact placings of the artists – who is top and who is bottom. I never know those details until the series is finished.

“There has always been a sing-off when there are five people left in the competition. This is a lot of nonsense about nothing.”

Television watchdog Ofcom issued a statement yesterday indicating that it was unlikely complaints against the show would be upheld.

Simon continued: “I’m always looking for ways to keep the show fresh. We knew we wanted four people in the final this year and I don’t want to be accused of doing the same thing.

“It’s more exciting and gives more people a chance to win it. That decision was made long ago – five or six weeks ago. It adds to the mystery and audience love the surprise element.

“We are doing our best to change the format. It’s more exciting to have a sing off.”