New mum Dannii Minogue fuelled hope for her rival’s return as she excitedly revealed the changes to the segment on Facebook.

Blogging to fans from her new family nest in home town Melbourne, Minogue posted and commented on an official X Factor internet statement concerning the absence of the two stars.

‘Exciting change to X Factor Judges’ Houses – I’ll get to pick from eight acts instead of six this season!’ Minogue wrote.

The 38-year-old made her comment after a statement from the show read: ‘Last year we added a live audience to the auditions, this year it’s Bootcamp that’s bringing about some changes… Instead of the usual six, eight acts will now go through to the Judges’ Houses stage so that Cheryl and Dannii, having missed the auditions, will have the opportunity to choose their finalists from a wider range of talent.’

X Factor bosses say they hope to keep this year’s plagued series ‘fresh and exciting’ following several mishaps.

Producers have had to juggle Minogue’s maternity gap, Cheryl’s major health scare and a string of stand-in judges including Geri Halliwell who was booed by audiences.

Cowell’s camp also confirmed whispers they have increased the age limit of the groups to 28. ITV say the exact timing of Cheryl’s return is not definite yet.

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