James Jordan wants Neil Jones to replace Pasha Kovalev on 'Strictly Come Dancing'.
James Jordan
The 40-year-old star - who was axed from the show himself in 2014 after eight years - has opened up on speculation regarding the 2019 lineup following Pasha's exit, and he's called on the competition's bosses to give more support to British dancers.
He told The Sun newspaper's TV Bizarre column: "No question Neil Jones has to replace Pasha. He's British for starters and there aren't enough British dancers on the show.
"He's ginger, he's funny, he's got a brilliant personality, he's a great choreographer - I have no idea why he's not had a partner previously."
The pro dancers are currently waiting to hear who will be invited back for the new series, and James - who is currently competing on ITV's 'Dancing On Ice' - insisted both Neil and his wife Katya should be part of the lineup.
He added: "Katya should be allowed back. Neil and Katya deserve their moment on the show as a couple.
"Whatever goes on in their personal life isn't my business and I don't really want to get involved because I love them both so much."
Last year, Katya was at the centre of controversy after she was snapped kissing her celebrity dance partner Seann Walsh on a night out.
However, earlier this month the couple reconfirmed their love and commitment as they revealed plans to renew their wedding vows.
Meanwhile, James' comments come after Pasha confirmed he was quitting 'Strictly'.
He said in a statement: "After scoring 93 perfect tens, reaching four finals and lifting one Glitterball, it's time for me to find a new challenge and so I've decided to make last year - my final season on Strictly.
"I've had eight fantastic years, full of wonderful memories, thanks to the incredible partners, professionals and myriad of behind the scenes teams who all work to make Strictly the amazing production that it is."
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