AJ Pritchard is "open" to finding love again on 'Strictly Come Dancing'.

Lauren Steadman and AJ Pritchard

Lauren Steadman and AJ Pritchard

The 23-year-old professional dancer is focusing all of his energy on his and Paralympic swimmer Lauren Steadman's bid to win this year's Glitterball Trophy, but the blonde hunk hasn't ruled out meeting a love interest on the BBC One Latin and ballroom show this year.

He told The Sun newspaper's Bizarre TV column: "I'm happy people are interested in us. We're both single and we will see what happens.

"I'm sure people will enjoy our romantic performance in our first show, which is going to be something special.

"I'm open to finding love."

AJ was romantically linked to his dance partner Mollie King last year, and though they are not together, he says they are still on good terms and she's even been offering her support to him and Lauren.

He said: "We're always in contact. She's behind me 100 per cent.

"I know she's a bit nervous for us but will support me all the way."

AJ and Lauren have had their rehearsal time cut back ahead of the first live show on Saturday (22.09.18), as Lauren has been in Australia taking part in a Paratriathlon event.

AJ predicts they'll work well together "under pressure" on the night.

He said: "We will perform under pressure. Every second counts, we'll cherish that time together more than any other couple.

"I'm so happy to get Lauren. We trained for only three hours before she had to fly to Australia and have just two days together before the live show, which is slightly scary.

"But it challenges me as a choreographer, I want to use it as a positive. I am enjoying working with her.

"Everyone will be surprised after week one."

'Strictly Come Dancing' airs from 6.15pm on Saturday (22.09.18).