American Idol wannabe Alex Preston has thanked One Direction fans for their support after he covered one of the band's songs on the show.

The singer appeared on the TV talent show last night (March 19) as the competition continues to whittle down in size.

He decided to cover One Direction's recent single 'Story of My Life' - and it seems that not only the judges were impressed.

Preston took to Twitter to say: "Directioners are rad. Thanks so much for the kind words :)."

Judge Jennifer Lopez said on the night: "Your vocal was so beautiful. When we talk about owning the stage, well that was it. You remind me of Buddy Holly…you’re just missing the glasses."

The singer meanwhile later tweeted Niall Horan to say: "@RyanSeacrest showed me your text, thanks for the words of advice for my cover of 1D's song on @AmericanIdol tonight!"

Watch Alex Preston cover One Direction below: