THERE are fears that Southend’s Matt Linnen may miss this weekend’s live X-Factor performances due to an illness bug - but he expects to be fit enough to sing.

The 28-year-old has proved a popular performer during his time on the show but with just weeks remaining there is uncertainty over whether some of the contestants will be well enough to perform.

According to the Daily Star, producers are concerned that the special George Michael tribute night could be affected due to the bug laying contestants low.

Fellow acts the Price Brothers and Holly Tandy have also reportedly been struck down by the mystery bug which could see them pull out from the live shows.

But it looks likely that Matt will pull through after a positive tweet to his fans yesterday morning.

He said: “Got my track for this week...sounding epic! Can’t wait to perform now!!!”

The former plasterer is taking the ITV show by storm, easing through the auditions and smashing the first two live performances.

Matt closed the show on Sunday night with a rendition with a twist of Livin’ La Vida Loca by Ricky Martin to meet the Latino theme.

Under the tutelage of ‘Overs’ coach Nicole Scherzinger, Matt will be hoping to make his way to the final. Although unconfirmed, it is rumoured that the final is booked in for December 2 meaning 28-year-old Matt has just three more live shows to make his way to the final.

Although popular, Matt has been ranked at 33/1 by bookmakers Paddy Power.

On Tuesday Matt tweeted to thank his fans for their constant support after his twist on Livin’ La Vida Loca reached number 58 on the iTunes chart. Matt has received nothing but the highest praise from judges after the first two live shows.