Simon Cowell has labelled his fellow X Factor judge Cheryl Cole 'lazy' after watching her act Cher Lloyd perform last night.

Speaking to Cher after her performance of Alicia Keys' 'Empire State of Mind', the music mogul said: "All I'm saying is that, with the standard of the competition this year, to make the final, knowing what is coming up tonight, you've got to be more original and therefore I think your mentor got a little bit lazy tonight."

Simon's comments come after an alleged tough week behind the scenes on the show. There have been rumours of disputes and 'ugly scenes' between the contestants in the girl camp.

It is reported that when Cheryl flew to LA midweek to discuss a record deal, tensions between the girls erupted, with Simon stepping in to stop arguments. Cheryl is also said to have texted support to Katie and Cher from America sparking jealous rivalry amongst the other girls.

Meanwhile Dannii's act Matt Cardle stole the show with an emotional performance of The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face.

The contest is now down to ten acts and the outcome of Cheryl's absence remains to be seen until tonight's live show.