Liam Payne thinks One Direction will earn male fans with next album

Los Angeles - Liam Payne says One Direction will convert male skeptics with their next album.

The Story of My Life singer believes their fourth record will expand their fan base and win over an audience who - thus far - might have dismissed them just for being a boy band.

Speaking to Capital FM, he said: "People say we don't work hard and it's all a game and whatever. 

"We just wanna make good music, and this album - honestly, every lad out there tonight who's thinking One Direction are this and that. Literally, next album - pick up our album and see what you feel."

The quintet - whose line-up is competed by Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan and Zayn Malik - are currently working on their next album and Liam has described their bond as tighter than ever despite constant speculation they could break up to pursue solo careers.

He recently explained: "We have been writing away for the next album and rehearsals are just about to start soon for the tour. We're not splitting up.

"We're on WhatsApp messaging each other all the time, talking about song ideas and just funny stuff from our day.

"It's been a while since we have all been together so we are enjoying being back in each others company."