Simon announced he was leaving the hit talent show earlier this year, and completed his last episode as a judge earlier this week. He had been with the programme for nine years, and admitted it was hard to say goodbye.

A host of stars appeared on his last show, including Poison frontman Bret. He has experienced a lot of health problems in recent weeks, undergoing an emergency appendectomy and being hospitalised for a brain haemorrhage and stroke. Bret gave a surprise performance, not even telling his family he had it planned, and the appearance got him thinking about who should fill Simon`s shoes.

"That`s what I`m saying! Let`s just say that I was to slip into Simon`s chair. I`m sorry he has to go but sometimes things happen," he said. "Provided my health holds up, I think I`m taking that chair next year. I think I could do an amazing job? I have lived and breathed music my entire life and I could give real constructive criticism."

Simon was blown away by Bret`s performance, and said he would be a good choice to take his place. He has been impressed with the 47-year-old`s determination to get well, and with his obvious love of the industry.

"Actually, he`d be good," Simon admitted. "He`s funny. He`s got experience. He`d be a good choice - and you saw the audience reaction to him. They love him."

Earlier this week, it was claimed show bosses hoped to get Madonna involved with the tenth series of the programme.
sections: Celebrities