Simon Cowell backs Louis Walsh over indecent assault claims

X Factor supremo Simon Cowell said he will support Louis Walsh "100 per cent" after allegations he indecently assaulted a 24-year-old man.

Police were called in after the alleged incident in a nightclub in Dublin, according to reports.

Cowell said: "I have known Louis Walsh for 20 years and I don't believe for a second that these allegations are true."

He told the Sun: "Like all of his close friends I will support him 100 per cent."

The Irishman became a household name in 2004 when he became a judge on the X Factor, and is the only remaining member of the original panel.

He has managed a number of groups and performers, including boybands Boyzone and Westlife.

A spokeswoman for Walsh, 58, said he had not been contacted by police about the claims.

She said: "He vigorously denies all of the allegations.

"If contacted by the police he will willingly co-operate with any investigation.

"Louis categorically denies any wrongdoing and will fight to clear his name."

She added: "The fact of the matter is the police have made no contact with Louis whatsoever."