Recently it emerged that John and Edward had knocked back the opportunity to co-host the Xtra Factor.  Whether they were referring to a formal offer or a speculative phone call is irrelevant, what is relevant is the effect that committing to such a long-term presenting job, or any presenting job for that matter, would have on their musical career.

Xtra Factor is a long gig to sign up to.  It’s not just the live shows, but it’s the auditions, bootcamp, the Judges Houses – on top of the Live Shows – everything.  It might also be that John and Edward would never be asked to sing, or even be allowed to promote their album – because they’re not signed to Syco.  In fact, when they guest co-hosted Xtra Factor with Caroline Flack in 2012, this was exactly the case, they weren’t even allowed to mention Young Love, which was brand…