U2, Morrissey Producer: 'I Want To Replace Simon Cowell On American Idol'

Steve Lillywhite, who has produced a number of albums by U2, has revealed that he wants to replace Simon Cowell as a judge on American Idol.

Cowell announced earlier this year that he planned to step down from the hit talent show after the current series.

His decision triggered widespread speculation over his possible replacement, with Piers Morgan and Noel Gallagher both being linked to the role.

But in an interview with Billboard magazine, Lillywhite argued that he was best suited to "help America find the next Elvis Presley”.

"I think I have the right credentials," he said. "I'm quite effervescent. I'm quite opinionated. I'm funny. I can do this job.

“If people say, 'Oh, you're just a rock producer,' I'm not. I'm a pop producer, because pop music is popular music. I'd like to think a lot of the things I do are popular.”

The British-born producer, a regular Idol viewer, said he often agreed with Cowell, but added: “The difference between me and Simon is my view of what the star could be is slightly broader than his.”

Lillywhite, who has also worked with the likes of the Rolling Stones and Morrissey, also posted a video message online about the vacancy.

He is currently producing the forthcoming studio album from Evanescence in New York.