Louis Tomlinson: We're working hard for fans

Louis Tomlinson has promised One Direction fans "the best album ever".

It's been a tumultuous time for the group, who yesterday had to deal with Zayn Malik's departure, leaving Louis, Harry Styles, Niall Horan and Liam Payne to continue as a four-piece.

Now the 23-year-old has taken to his Twitter page to reassure followers that this doesn't mean the end.

"Your support has been incredible , truly incredible so thank you so much !" Louis posted.

"Been a crazy couple of days but know that we are going to work harder than ever to deliver the best album we've ever made for you guys ! (sic)"

Niall also took to the social networking site, reiterating his bandmate's statement about their future plans. That will likely offer some solace to fans who were worried the group might split.

"Been a mad few days and your support has been incredible as per usual ! This in turn Spurs us on to make the best music we possibly can," Niall wrote.

"Put on great shows / tours for you guys. You are the best fans in the world and you deserve nothing less from us!

"The lads and I arrived in South Africa this morning . We cannot wait to see all you SA fans for the first time and have great shows (sic)."

Many had anticipated Zayn's exit after he'd decided to drop out of some of the band's On the Road Again Tour dates last week. It followed pictures of him looking close to a blonde girl while in Thailand, with one snap even showing them holding hands. This immediately prompted speculation he was cheating on his fiancée, Little Mix star Perrie Edwards.

The band and their fans were hit hard by his departure, with Harry even breaking down in tears on stage yesterday. He later took to Twitter to send love to his fans, with Liam also posting a message about feeling exhausted following a manic 24 hours.

Zayn has stayed silent on his page, but did release a statement apologising to fans and saying he just wants to be a "normal 22-year-old".