One Direction have commented on the recent leak of their new album.

The lads are due to release their third record 'Midnight Memories' on November 25 but it found its way online a week early on Monday (November 18).

Speaking to Digital Spy on the day of the leak, Liam Payne admitted that it will probably reduce their record sales - a frustrating prospect as the group have No.1 in their sights. He said:

"It is annoying because there's this big build-up and it affects sales. We really want a number one, so we're just kind of hoping for the best now. Hopefully people go out and buy it."

Louis Tomlinson added: "It's just frustrating when you work so hard on an album and you kind of want everyone to hear it at the same time. Some select fans won't listen to it until it's out, which is great. But there are others who obviously can't help themselves."

Bandmate Harry Styles said: "It's just nice to have an impact. If there was an album I liked and I could listen to it a week before, I probably would. It's just nice to have that moment where it builds up to, 'Now it's out and everyone can listen to it."

Payne meanwhile finished up by saying: "It happens these days all the time. There are some very clever people out there. You're buggers!"