Cheryl Cole's US X Factor back-up plan

Cheryl Cole could be given a guest panellist role on the US 'X Factor'.

The 27-year-old singer - who is still waiting to hear whether she will land a role on the judging panel of the Fox show - is reportedly being offered the back-up job by music mogul Simon Cowell amid fears US TV audiences won't understand her strong Geordie accent.

Simon's brother Tony told the Daily Star newspaper: "Simon has stuck his neck on the line with 'X Factor' USA. He knows it is a big risk to put Cheryl on the US judging panel but will do what he can for her. It was a risk to put her on in the UK, don't forget. But Simon takes risks.

"I think she could well get the role but alongside a well-known US judge like Paula Abdul. Or at least if not that, she could do a three-week guest judge cameo role. Simon's back from the States next week so expect news then."

Meanwhile, a list of potential judges to front the UK version of the talent show has reportedly been drawn up - including Lily Allen, Kate Moss, Nicole Scherzinger, Robbie Williams and Michael Buble - in the hope of ensuring the ITV1 series continues to be a big hit if Simon and Cheryl quit their roles.

Tony added: "Simon is a fan of Lily's and has had talks. I'm sure she'd be fabulous.

"Kate would be great, even for a cameo role."