Two members of One Direction have spoken publicly following recent rumours that the group are to split.
The Sun reported over the weekend that the boy band will disband this March after holding crunch talks in London earlier in the month.
The report claimed that the four members of the boy band – Harry Styles, Liam Payne, Louis Tomlinson and Niall Horan – had mutually agreed to an extended hiatus to focus on solo projects.
A source reportedly close to the band told The Sun: “The guys have been together for five years, which is an incredible run for any boyband. They fully deserve to have at least a year to work on their own projects. There is absolutely no bad blood between them and they are all 100 per cent behind the decision.”
Now, singers Niall Horan and Louis Tomlinson have clarified that they’re not splitting up completely, but instead taking a break.
Ok so Lots of rumours going round. We are not splitting up, but we will be taking a well earned break at some point next year
— Niall Horan (@NiallOfficial) August 24, 2015
Don't worry though, we still have lots we want to achieve ! Can't wait for you to hear all the new music we have for you and to perform
— Niall Horan (@NiallOfficial) August 24, 2015
Your support is truly indescribable! It's just a break 🙂 we're not going anywhere !!
— Louis Tomlinson (@Louis_Tomlinson) August 24, 2015
Promise ?
— Louis Tomlinson (@Louis_Tomlinson) August 24, 2015
? Don't worry ?
— Louis Tomlinson (@Louis_Tomlinson) August 24, 2015
The tabloid report came just five months after Zayn Malik departed the group, stating that he wishes to be “a normal 22-year-old who is able to relax and have some private time out of the spotlight”.
Malik has since unveiled plans for a solo career, stating that he wants to make “#realmusic”.
Zayn’s exit was followed by the first official press shot of the band as a four-piece, with body language experts claiming that the picture shows signs of disunity in the group.
Last month saw the surprise release of the One Direction’s new single, ‘Drag Me Down‘. Their fifth album is due out this Christmas but the group have reportedly decided not to tour in promotion of the record.
One Direction have sold more than 50 million records worldwide and boast more than 91 number ones across the globe.