Simon Cowell says One Direction members will come up with solo projects

Simon Cowell has confirmed that One Direction members will be coming up with their solo projects following in the footsteps of ex-band member Zayn Malik, who is set to release his solo album titled Mind of Mine on 25 March. The music mogul, who brought together the members of the band on X Factor, said Liam Payne, Niall Horan, Harry Styles and Louis Tomlinson deserved their break as they have worked hard during the past five years.

"Yeah, there will be more, I'm absolutely sure of that," Simon told E! News, according to The Metro. "Well, it was always going to come. You can't work at that level; the way they did. I mean lots of things are going to be announced over the next few months, but they were, are, the nicest people, you know, to work with," Simon said. "Hardworking, appreciate everything, so it won't be the end," he added.

Talking about Zayn, Simon said: "We were involved with what label he went on, and he's still signed to our company, so, he's done fantastic, and he's showing that he's a great vocalist and very talented."

Zayn had walked out on One Direction during their On The Road Again tour in March 2015. Since leaving the group, Zayn released his first solo single Pillowtalk on 29 January, which topped the Billboard Hot 100, On Demand Songs and the US Digital Songs chart. It was top of the music charts in the UK as well. The solo single is one of the songs from Zayn's album Mind of Mine.

With the success of his solo song release, Zayn said: "Thank you to all my fans and supporters. We have achieved this together and I am grateful."

"What is gwaning :) !! I can't explain the love and gratitude i feel today, thank you for making this happen (sic)," Zayn also tweeted.