NICOLA Roberts admits she will find it difficult to watch tonight’s X Factor results show as yet another of the acts gets voted off.

The experience of being on the stage in front of millions of viewers and the judges is one that she went through on one of the earliest music talent shows, 2002’s Popstars: The Rivals.

And the latest of Simon Cowell’s TV singing contests brings the memories flooding back.

So much so that when Nicola sees the contestants squirm, she feels for them every inch of the way.

Nicola, 26, said: “Every time I watch X Factor, especially the audition process, I can feel the nerves.

“I feel sick just like I did when I was taking part in Popstars: The Rivals.

“The feeling comes back because I identify with these people who love to sing and want to be surrounded by music and to be successful. Watching the show reminds me of how that feels and it is all too familiar.”

Tipping both Misha B and Little Mix as the most talented of the surviving finalists, Nicola added: “I actually love Little Mix. They are really fun and nice to watch.

“I met them the other night and they are really genuinely close in their support of each other.

“I think they are going to have a really good work ethic. If you have that understanding of each other you are prepared to work hard.

“Determination can’t be overlooked. They are really lovely girls.

“Misha B is really talented. Her understanding of music and her dedication to it is apparent.

“It is very clear to see. But just as much as it is a talent competition, it’s a popularity contest as well.”

Next up for Nicola is new single, Yo-Yo in January. Taken from her recent Top 20 album Cinderella Eyes, it follows hit singles Beat Of My Drum and Lucky Day.

“It feels like ages ago that I released the first single from the album. I feel like this year has been a blur,” she said.

“It’s strange because I spent so long making the album in the studio and submerged myself into that way of life.

“I had to put it out there and, at times, it felt like I would never see that day. I got so used to seeing the songs as demos or on my laptop.

“It was amazing, after 18 months of hard work, to have that little CD.”