Music mogul Simon Cowell has praised boyband One Direction for their impressive international success and endless hard work.

He explained that the lads are a fantastic example of the opportunities that being part of The X Factor can bring with the right attitude, and told MTV News:

"It just proves the point that you can enter one of these shows, and even though you didn't win, you can have a big career afterwards."

"I think they're good examples for the other contestants, you know what the show can do for people."

The heartthrobs performed on X Factor USA last night (November 8) and member Liam Payne admitted it was a memorable night: "We had a great time, so we're really happy."

Watch part of their X Factor USA live set here: