Date Posted: 20 July 2010 @ 19:56

Liam has won a second chance at X Factor success after appearing in front of the judges again at the Birmingham auditions on Monday.

Liam, who was just 14 when he first auditioned, was so impressive he earned himself a standing ovation and an instant "Yes" from all four judges.

Now 16, he is seen as a dead cert to make the final 12 later this year.

Simon, who flew him out to Barbados for the pre-final selection in 2008, raved about his performance of Justin Timberlake's Cry Me A River.

Simon had sent him packing first time round saying he was "too young".

But on Monday, Simon said: "This goes to prove my point. Two years ago I said you needed to go away for a little bit.

"You've changed into a man and are so much better for it."