OK, OK, everyone needs to take a timeout and say: Paula’s gone; Paula’s gone; Paula’s gone.

Of course, we are dealing in publicity here and Ryan Seacrest even admitted he isn’t totally convinced the controversial Ms. Abdul just won’t resurface in time for the latest round of AI tapings.

But that said … the word is that AI is looking at Victoria “Posh” Spice as a possible replacement for Paula this season.

Oh, my, the confluence of soccer and AI … such a jolly combination. Just “Bend It” Posh! Let’s see how you rate next season’s Bikini Girl!