The X Factor made a triumphant return to screens last week but after newly married Cheryl Fernandez-Versini soaked up double the amount of airtime that her co-judge Mel B did show insiders reveal the Spice Girl is launching a master plan.

CHERYL FERNANDEZ-VERSINI BLASTS STRICTLY

In this week’s Closer sources close to Mel uncover her ploy to be the show’s top dog.

A source says: “Mel feels she's getting far less airtime than Cheryl, but she's determined not to let her overshadow her. She even has a plan to steal the spotlight! She's going to follow Cheryl's lead and will make sure she shows her softer side with contestants - she's decided she won't be afraid to let her guard down and cry occasionally."