Cheryl ColeGirls Aloud singer Cheryl Cole has never been one to hold back.

So we caught up with the sassy singer ahead of the launch of the fifth series of The X Factor, to get all the goss. 

After Sharon Osbourne quit over salary negotiations, Cheryl was promptly announced as her replacement. According to Simon Cowell, he had always wanted her to join the show.

So how has Cheryl coped with all the X Factor hype? Has she already chosen a winner?

Which category do you want to mentor?
I want to mentor the Groups. Partly because it's what I have the most experience with. Also there is a young boy band we saw that made me immediately want that category!

Who do you mostly agree with on the judging panel?
I wouldn't say there's anyone on the panel I agree with the most as we all have our own opinions but I have to say I love Simon's honesty. I'd say 90% of the contestants want Simon's opinion even though he can be blunt.

If you were auditioning, what would you sing?
I would never attempt a Whitney or Mariah song, because you'll always get compared. I know my limits and am realistic about my ability so I would stick to something simple.

How was your first day?
The night before the first auditions, I didn't sleep a wink. I've always been a big fan of the show so I was excited about taking part but it was also really scary.

How do the rest of Girls Aloud feel about your new role?
The girls are excited and nervous about the whole thing as I am. At the moment they just keep telling me to be myself and call if I need them.

What kind of judge are you?
I feel a bit uncomfortable about being called a judge. I'd like to think I'm there to give my opinion and advice.

Umm, we hate to be the ones to break it to you Cheryl, but you are in fact a judge.

Catch all the action from the auditions process this Saturday on ITV1 at 7.30pm.

In the mean time get your X Factor fix by checking out our gallery below on past contestants. Ever wondered what happened to brother and sister act Same Difference? Or Rhydian Roberts?