(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Sir Elton John has expressed concerns about television talent show winners who are humped and dumped.

The British musician has previously criticised programmes like The X Factor and American Idol, insisting they dont give artists a true insight into the music industry. He worries singers who take part in such series shoot to fame too quickly, before they are ready to deal with being so well known.

The 63-year-old has now launched a fresh attack, claiming winners of UK show The X Factor which airs in the winter - arent properly cared for. He praised 2008 winner Alexandra Burkes voice, but insists she would have done better if shed found fame the traditional way.

What's the psychological damage going to be when you've humped and dumped them, and the next one comes along? he told host Christian O'Connell on his Absolute Radio Breakfast Show.

They're a bit like products, to be honest with you. They're products, and the record comes out at Christmas, and it's always number one, and then what happens next year? Why aren't they touring? Who's managing these people? Why aren't you building their career properly? That's what worries me.

Elton insists he doesnt hate such series, he just finds them troubling. He added he would never be able to take a job as a mentor on one as he doesnt feel able to judge other musicians.

It's hard enough to see someone in a hotel lobby playing a piano who's really good and nobody cares, you know, he explained. It's like, 'I've done that. It's b****y hard work'. So I'm on the artists side. (C) Cover Media