Olly Murs has tipped his pal Niall Horan for solo success.
The Mullingar native has been rumoured to make a solo album since One Direction went on hiatus – and X Factor star Olly reckons he’d get on great.
“Niall’s one of my mates so of course I’d back him to do well. I’m sure if he is doing an album, it will do well,” he said.
Olly struck up a friendship with Niall after previously touring with One Direction, and the Troublemaker singer admitted that he’d love to see an Irish contestant win this year’s X Factor.
Pals: Olly has tipped Niall for solo success | INSTAGRAM
“The Irish have always been super-talented in the show and 100pc, there should be a winner that’s Irish,” Olly told the Herald.
Despite sensationally quitting the ITV show, there’s no bad blood for Olly as he’ll still tune in to the show.
“I’m not bitter. I didn’t get sacked from the show, I left it myself. I’ve still got a great friendship with Simon (Cowell) and everyone down there.
“This year the X Factor has gone old school. It’s gone back to basics with the old judging line up with Sharon, Louis and Nicole.
Irish Pride: Olly wants an Irish contestant to win The X Factor | INSTAGRAM
“It’s four familiar faces that viewers have seen before so I’m sure it will do well. I still love the X Factor. It put me where I am today,” he admitted.
Olly also revealed that Ireland is one of his favourite places to perform – and he’s hoping to play Croke Park one day.
“One of my dreams is to do that and I hope I get the opportunity to one day do my own show.
“I did the three nights which was amazing and we’re getting bigger and bigger crowds each time we play here,” he added.
