Sinitta has confessed that she would like to see Ashley Cole boost his popularity during the World Cup.
The X Factor mentor claimed that the current tournament could prove to be a turning point for the England footballer, who has faced a public backlash amid his split from wife Cheryl.
Writing on Twitter as England played against the USA on Saturday, Sinitta admitted: "I want Ash Cole to score. He's been in the doghouse for so long, and yet [John] Terry got out quickly. Ash could redeem himself in public affection if he scores."
However, the ex-popstar's remarks provoked a mixed response from her fans, with one asking: "Shouldn't you be showing a bit more loyalty to your X Factor colleague?!?!"
Sinitta replied: "Oops! But it's his profession, not his personal life. He needs to play well."
Earlier this year, Sinitta vowed to support Cheryl and declared that she was praying for her.
Daniel has been writing about soaps on Digital Spy since 2004 and took over as Soaps Editor in 2010.
He has interviewed hundreds of soap stars over the years, from Bill Roache to Lacey Turner, and regularly visits the sets of Coronation Street, EastEnders, Emmerdale and Hollyoaks for behind-the-scenes trips and press events.
He has served as an awards judge on numerous occasions for the likes of the BAFTA TV Awards, RTS Programme Awards and British Soap Awards. In 2020, he was Highly Commended for Best Section Editor at the BSME Awards.
