Niall Horan has confirmed that One Direction have begun work on their next album.

The group only released their last record 'Midnight Memories' in November but it seems they are keen to keep the momentum going.

Horan tweeted today (January 27) that songwriting sessions are due to get underway as the band reassemble from time off.

He said: "Writing time ! #newmusic! Buzzin! Can't wait t see the lads too!"

When asked by a fan if he will play guitar on the new record, the Irishman replied: "Yep id say so! Can't wait for that either!"

The Wanted's Max George meanwhile recently went on record to say that One Direction's prominence has contributed to his group announcing a hiatus. He said:

"One Direction are a phenomenon that no one else can compete with. They’ve taken over the market.”

George added: “We have our own fans, who we love, but we couldn’t stop things from happening.”