Gary: ‘I’d love to see Rylan cover a Belinda Carlisle classic!’

Ooh, heaven really is a place on earth. We’re stood in The Barlow’s dressing room (sadly, he’s fully-clothed) and he’s ready to talk about all things X.

In fact, one look at those baby blues and that sexy stubble and we’re putty in his paws. In the flesh, we’re happy to report that the musical mastermind is chivalrous, cute and charming, (future boyfriends, take note).

Here, gorgeous Gazza lifts the lid on what he REALLY makes of Rylan and why he’s full of admiration for how Christopher has been coping.

If you were given Rylan, what would YOU do with him?
If I had to mentor Rylan, I’d give him a Belinda Carlisle classic. I could just imagine him belting out Heaven Is a Place on Earth. He’d go to town with the hairspray and 80s shoulder-pads. He must do it!

Are you made up about the Final taking place in your hometown of Manchester?
It’s amazing! I already know how excited the Mancunians are about the fact that the Final is going to be held in their city. I think you’re guaranteed a blinding audience in Manchester. The audience is going to go crazy. I can’t wait!

Out of the Finalists, who has been on the biggest journey so far?
Jahmene has been on a big journey. Confidence-wise, I’ve seen him grow each week. It’s been wonderful to see his self-esteem improve in the way that is has. Christopher was also a bag of nerves at the start and now he’s happy as Larry.

How is Chris?
He’s doing great. Sunday nights are supposed to be full of dread but he springs in and out of my dressing room. I’m so happy to see that he’s enjoying himself.

How do you feel about the negative press he’s received?
He’s had the most criticism out of everybody. I only know what I see. For me, he’s really easy to work with.  Whenever I’m around him, he’s the loveliest, sweetest man ever.

How is he handling it?
I think he’s managed it brilliantly. If these things were being said about me, I’d be cursing and lashing out. I really admire how he’s taken the negative things being said about him in his stride. I really respect that.

We must ask – favourite EVER Take That tune?
Back for Good. It was a good time personally and professionally for us as a band and it was our first hit in America. I’ll always have fond memories of that particular song.