X Factor star Reece Bibby has swapped his guitar for some football boots as he was invited to spend the day with his heroes at Blackburn Rovers.

The Accrington teen hit the headlines after wowing judges on the ITV talent competition with his acoustic version of Latch by Disclosure.

Reece was treated to an exclusive trip to the training ground where he watched the first team squad showcase their skills, before the tables were turned and he
performed in front of players.

Reece said playing in front of Rovers boss Gary Bowyer and the players was more nerve racking than facing the X Factor judging panel.

He said: “Watching the players train was just epic.

“I then got to meet them all, I got to meet Gary Bowyer and went into his office, where I sat in his chair and even picked a starting XI for the game against Wigan.

“I then came into the dining room and performed two songs for them and they seemed to like it, so it was an amazing day.”

The singer-songwriter was even asked for autographs and photos with some of the players.

He said: “They’ve been my idols all my life.

“I’ve grown up with Blackburn Rovers, got a season ticket when I was about three years old, so it’s absolutely crazy for Blackburn players coming up and asking me for pictures.”

“I’m not even joking, I was shaking more in there with the Blackburn players than I was in front of the judges.”

Reece added: “I think facing Gary Bowyer’s a bit more nerve-racking than Simon Cowell, to be honest. I can’t thank the club enough for inviting me down to meet my heroes, they’ve been so sound.

“Sitting in Ewood Park a couple of years ago, I never ever thought I’d be down at Brockhall performing in the training centre.”