Simon Cowell says he is happy for the five One Direction members to do work outside of the band.

The singers have often written music with other writers and producers.

Zayn Malik, for example, is set to appear on Naughty Boy's future material.

Louis Tomlinson is currently linked with working with Cowell on finding new talent and the Syco boss told the Mirror that he is keen for the lads to branch out.

He said: "We’ve said to all the boys in the group, all of you should do other things. If you want to work with me, do some stuff on your own, they should be allowed to do whatever they want.

"I love the fact that Louis wants to do something with me, but I’m doing stuff with all the boys."

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