New Kids on the Block have shown their gratitude to One Direction for bringing boybands back in vogue.

The British-Irish group catapulted to international fame after leaving the UK X Factor in 2010 and they are currently one of the world's biggest acts.

It was a boost to the boyband scene and veterans New Kids on the Block told the Daily Star that they feel One Direction have made male groups cool again.

Joey McIntyre said: "It’s fun to see One Direction’s success, they have made people much more open to all types of music. It means people are more tolerant of our music too. We tip our hats to them in our new show with a cover or two."

When asked what his favourite One Direction member is, the singer said:

"I have to say Niall because I’m Irish, right. But Harry is hard not to say yes to!"

Watch New Kids on the Block in action below: