One Direction star Zayn Malik has admitted that it is "really hard" being away from his family when he is working.

The singer has had his world turned upside down since appearing on the 2010 series of the X Factor as he morphed from an unknown amateur into a global star.

He has embarked on a number of tours to countries such as North America and Australia and he told The Sun that he finds it difficult being away from home. Malik said:

"It's been really hard. Last weekend was the first time in six months that I'd been home."

The 'One Thing' star added: "It's pretty strange because you have images of people in your head when you left, then you just think they're going to be the same when you come back, like time freezes. I have sisters and from the ages of 11 to 13 - it's a big change for girls."