When governments go bust no one gets to be treated as a favourite, everyone has to take their lumps along with all others.

FORBES: Eurozone: The ECB's Basic Problem

Meanwhile, McElderry has emerged as a favourite after he impressed the judges with Could It Be Magic and Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word.

BBC: Lloyd Daniels' X Factor dream ends as he is voted off

Noon's Newcastle colleague Toby Flood will be the favourite to replace him in the 30-man squad as England head into a critical Pool A clash with Samoa in Nantes on Saturday.

BBC: Noon out but hope over Robinson

With a maximum of 10 points available, the 23-year-old Englishman will be a strong favourite to become the youngest champion in F1 history at Interlagos.

BBC: Hamilton closes on title with win