Simon Cowell proved that he still calls the shots on X Factor last night as he checked up on his new judges.

ITV2’s Xtra Factor showed the media mogul visiting the London auditions to see the revamped panel in action.

Simon, 52, told show host Caroline Flack he’s still in charge and that his set visits are vital: “I have to come down… I’m producing the show. They miss me, but, that’s the way it goes.”

He stepped down as a judge for the UK show’s eighth series as he is busy launching X Factor USA, though he continues to co-produce the UK show through his company Syco.

Perfectionist Simon revealed he is pleased with his decisions on the new crop of judges. He affectionately branded Tulisa Contostavlos a “lippy brat”, adding: “I like that. She’s bolshy. She’s got a good ear.”

And Simon also spoke highly of Gary Barlow and Kelly Rowland, saying: “Gary’s like a producer and he knows how to spot a star. He’ll want to come in on his first year and win.

“Kelly, she’s like an athlete, and it’s this American professionalism – she’s always, always on it.”

Simon’s expected to make a return visit to check up on how they are ­doing later in the series too.