One Direction give first interview since Zayn's departure: 'We'll carry on stronger than ever'

'Story Of My Life' heartthrobs One Direction have given their first official interview since member Zayn Malik left the band.

Malik announced his surprising departure towards the end of last month and the remaining stars, namely Niall Horan, Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson and Liam Payne, have now opened up about his decision in a new interview with The Sun newspaper:

"It's been a tough few weeks, probably the toughest since the band was formed five years ago. We're gutted that Zayn chose to leave, but now after a few performances as a four piece, we're feeling confident and are determined to carry on stronger than ever."

Harry Styles added that he and the rest of the 1D boys are grateful to their fans for being so supportive during this tough time: "It's very exciting to be working on our fifth album, it shows how incredible the fans have been. A huge thank you to them for everything they've done for us. All the love to them."

Singer Niall Horan echoed Styles' sentiment and spoke about working on their upcoming fifth studio album: "We're looking forward to seeing all our fans on the tour this year. The fans are amazing. They are so loyal. All we want to do is make them proud and return their faith in us with a brilliant tour and an amazing new album."

Watch footage of the boyband on their current tour here: