One Direction determined to continue as four-piece

The remaining members of One Direction have reassured fans they are determined to continue performing as a four-piece following the shock departure of Zayn Malik.

Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Liam Payne and Niall Horan were devastated when Malik announced his decision to leave the band last month (Mar15) so he can live like a "normal 22 year old", but they promised to continue performing without him.

Now they have spoken out to underline their determination not to break up entirely, insisting One Direction will live on.

Tomlinson tells British newspaper The Sun, "All four of us are 100 per cent committed to One Direction. We want to thank the fans for being so incredible."

Payne adds, "We're gutted Zayn left. But after a few performances as a four-piece we feel confident and determined to carry on stronger than ever."

It comes after unconfirmed reports that Malik has been in a studio working with British producer Naughty Boy for his first material as a solo artist.