Starting a family will make Cheryl Fernandez Versini "really happy".

Cheryl Fernandez Versini and Liam Payne

Cheryl Fernandez Versini and Liam Payne

The 33-year-old singer is expecting her first child with boyfriend Liam Payne, 23, and 'The X Factor' judge Louis Walsh - who has had run-ins with both Cheryl and Liam in the past- believes having a baby will make her truly happy.

He told the Daily Star: "I think Cheryl and Liam starting a family will make her really happy. I honestly think she deserves to be happy.

"And I think this will make her happy over and above what her career does.

"Liam's a nice guy. I have nothing bad to say about them.

"I don't think being a mum will affect her career at all if she doesn't want it to. It's never too late. I only wish her the best."

Louis' comments come after Liam slammed him for telling a reporter to "f**k off" when asked about the possibility of Cheryl returning to the 'X Factor's judging panel in the future.

Liam tweeted: "Congratulations Louis Walsh for setting the worst example on handling media for his band who are about to step into a very hard industry.

"Maybe it's about time you realise it's not all about you and shut the f**k up for once, let them speak (sic)".

Louis has previously slammed Liam and his One Direction bandmates for believing "the hype around them".

He said of the group, which were put together on 'The X Factor' in 2010: "We create monsters in the music business - they only become famous because they've been on the show and we got you those songs.

"They're lucky f**kers, but some get a sense of entitlement and believe the hype. Too many artists appear to forget where they came from."