Strictly Come Dancing star Delta Goodrem has announced she will not be able to compete in this week’s live show due to an injury sustained during training.

On Tuesday evening, the Australian singer-songwriter confirmed that because of a “rib injury”, she would be sitting out Saturday night’s live show.

As is standard procedure when a Strictly contestant is injured, the Eurovision star will be allowed to return to the contest next week, provided she is fit and well.

A BBC spokesperson said: “Due to injury, Delta Goodrem has been advised by doctors to rest and, as a result, will not dance on this weekend’s Strictly Come Dancing.

“In line with the rules of the show, Delta and Kai will receive a bye through to next week when it is hoped they will be able to dance again.

“We wish Delta the very best as she continues her recovery.”

In her own statement, Delta told fans of the long-running dance show: “I’m absolutely gutted that a rib injury means I won’t be able to dance on Strictly this week.

“I’ve been loving every second of this experience, so having to sit this one out is heartbreaking – especially after the high of Saturday night. I can not tell you how much I love being a part of this magical show. I’m going to focus on resting and recovering, and hopefully I’II be back on that dance floor very soon.”

Signing off her message with “all my love”, the Born To Try singer added: “Thank you so much to everyone for all the love and support. It’s so appreciated. I’ll be cheering everyone on from the sidelines this week!”

Just three weeks into the competition, Delta and her professional partner Kai Widdrington had emerged as frontrunners, topping the leaderboard when it came to week one and two’s combined scores, as well as during the most recent live show.

Saturday’s Strictly live show will see the contestants celebrating legendary musicians in the show’s annual Icons Week special.