Joe McElderry has revealed that he thinks Little Mix are "better than ever" following the departure of Jesy Nelson.
The 30-year-old singer, who won the sixth series of The X Factor back in 2009, is good friends with the girl group who won the ITV show two years later in 2011.
Earlier this month, Joe attended Little Mix's concert at London's O2 Arena and also partied with the ladies after the gig at club The London Reign.
Perrie Edwards, Jade Thirlwall and Leigh-Anne Pinnock wowed fans during their Confetti Tour as they took to the stage as a threesome following the departure of 30-year-old Jesy.
Speaking exclusively to The Mirror, Joe said of Little Mix: "Well, I grew up with Jade so we've been friends for many, many years, we're from obviously the same town. And then obviously I know Perrie from being from home."
Speaking about their gig at London's O2 Arena and the wrap party, Joe continued: "They're fantastic and obviously they've all got great careers ahead of them individually and, again, the end of a fantastic era that they've had. It was a great celebration."
Asked if it was weird to watch them perform as a trio instead of a foursome, Joe replied: "I think they're so talented and their show was so fantastic. I think, to me, they were better than ever, they were fantastic and it was a fantastic show."
Referring to the fact that he and Little Mix are still enjoying successful careers over a decade after winning The X Factor, Joe said: "I think it's important to say that the music industry is a very, very tough place to work. It's very competitive, it's very fast-changing.
"And I think the emphasis on kind of X Factor and this thing of like, 'some people do well and some people don't', that happens to hundreds and thousands of artists all around the world on a daily basis. I think there's just a bit more of a spotlight shone on the whole X Factor thing.
"But I do feel very fortunate you know, and I've worked very, very hard and I feel lucky, but I do work hard," Joe added.
"And I am thankful that I still get to do it because it's something that I love."
Joe is now looking forward to his FREEDOM tour later this year, which will pay homage to the one and only George Michael.
Kicking off at Portsmouth Guildhall on Wednesday 5 October, FREEDOM will see Joe perform at venues across England, Scotland and Wales.
Joe McElderry is touring in brand new show FREEDOM this October celebrating the music of George Michael. Tickets can be purchased here.
