X Factor winner Matt Cardle has asked Biffy Clyro fans to “give him a break” after he covered one of the band’s songs.

The former painter and decorator‘s rendition of ‘Many Of Horror’, retitled ‘When We Collide’, is favourite to take the Christmas number one spot.

Many Biffy Clyro fans have expressed frustration at the song choice and the decision to rename it.

But Cardle told BBC News he believed his cover had done the original song justice.

"I've done a cover of a very credible song," he said. "I leapt at the chance to do it because it's not your average winner's song.

"It's not cheesy and I'm sorry if I've ruined it for people, but it's credible. I understand why there will be a backlash, but give me a break."

Cardle is currently comfortably outselling his nearest rivals in the race for the coveted festive top spot.

Meanwhile, Take That are expected to retain the number one position on the album chart with 'Progress'.

(by Jason Gregory)