Strictly Come Dancing's Brendan Cole has been replaced in training due to illness.

Brendan Cole and Anastacia

Brendan Cole and Anastacia

Gorka Marquez is filling in for the 40-year-old professional dancer, who partners Anastacia, after he was struck down with a serious chest infection which saw him rush to A&E shortly before he was due to dance on last Saturday's (15.10.16) show.

And the star is not sure whether he will be fit enough to perform this Saturday (22.10.16).

Speaking on 'Strictly' spin-off 'It Takes Two', he said: "I'll see the doctor again, he said take off until Thursday/ Friday at least."

Brendan has still played a large part in the pop star's routine for this weekend as he choreographed the dance.

Anastacia joked she "hadn't noticed" Gorka's muscly physique and joked he sessions with him have been "awful".

Brendan quipped: "I'll let you into a little secret. We have the lovely Gorka stepping in for me for a few days.

"I don't know how happy I am about it - he's Spanish, he's good looking and has a body which is pretty much the best on the show."

A BBC insider said: "Brendan has choreographed the routine but is resting until Friday as per doctors' orders.

"So Gorka will be running the routine with Anastasia in training until then."

Anastacia's time on 'Strictly' has been the subject of controversy after she got injured and was unable to take part in the first dance-off of the series, meaning Melvin Odoom was ejected from the show as he and his partner Janette Manrara received the fewest votes from the public.

The 48-year-old singer was left in agony after she tore mastectomy scar tissue during training.


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