Lucie Jones' Rugby Romance Rumours

'X Factor' star Lucie Jones is secretly dating a rugby player.

Comparisons between the Welsh singer and former child star Charlotte Church have increased since it was revealed they had the same singing coach and are reportedly both dating rugby players.

While Charlotte, who is also Welsh, dates England player Gavin Henson, however, Lucie's man, Richard Jaycock, only plays for a local side.

A friend of Lucie, 18, told Britain's The Sun newspaper: "Her singing coach isn't the only thing she's got in common with Charlotte Church.

"Lucie makes no secret about the fact she loves rugby players - and she thinks Richard is great.

"She even invited him to come down to London to watch her last week, which shows how much she cares about him."

The timing of the relationship isn't ideal for the young singer though, as she is under much pressure to deal with in appearing on the show.

The source added: "Lucie knows it's going to be difficult starting a new relationship while she's on the show. But she's determined to make things work."

Richard, 22, plays for his local team in Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire.

When he came to support Lucie on 'The X Factor' he wore a 'Vote Lucie' T-shirt. The teenage singer's previous boyfriend was also a rugby player.