Louis Walsh, who worked alongside Cheryl Fernandez-Versini on The X Factor, says she and Liam Payne are “so in love” despite dating for less than a year.

The reality TV judge commented that Cheryl has never been happier thanks to the love and attention given by the One Direction singer.

He told Event magazine: “Can I be honest with you about Cheryl? I think Liam and Cheryl are going to work… He’s a nice guy and he’s in love with her. He’ll make her happy. I think she was in a bad place over the last two years. And she brought her misery to ‘The X Factor’.”

Louis also praised the 23-year-old artist as a “great songwriter” and believes Cheryl should work with him professionally on new music.

He continued: “I think she could have a hit if she wants but she has to choose the right song. She’s no Mariah Carey or Celine Dion but I’d put her voice in there along with Kylie Minogue, Britney Spears or Katy Perry. She just needs the right songs. Maybe Liam can write her some. He’s a good songwriter.”

Despite his positive words, Louis had also contracted the mood by slamming Liam and his fellow One Direction bandmates. He described them as “monsters” and said none will find success as solo artists with the exception of Harry Styles.

“Too much money, too much success too quickly. Simon Cowell created monsters and that was it. They all think they’re going to be solo stars. They’re not. Only Harry. That’s it. Then they’ll be sorry they broke up and it’ll be too late because there’s another boy band. That’s what always happens in boy bands.”