By Kat Collins
Newsbeat Reporter
Image caption On stage in Cardiff despite ‘taking a break’ speculation in several newspapers
One Direction made no reference to rumours of a break or even a split, in their first UK gig without Zayn Malik.
The band performed at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium, as reports claimed they would soon be ‘taking a breather’, something denied by their publicist.
Instead the group said it was “good to be back” as they started the European leg of their On The Road Again Tour.
As expected, the band didn’t comment on Zayn Malik’s departure.
It was their first performance in Britain since he quit the band in March.
On stage, Harry told the crowd of fans he was “excited” to be working on a fifth album, calling it “incredible” they were ever given the chance to even make one.
The boy band were back performing after a two month break of their world tour.
Niall said he had felt like a long time off, with Liam adding that he’d missed the rest of the band.
Harry also thanked the fans for their support and paid tribute to all the mums and dad’s who’d brought their children to the gig.
Image caption The band will play Cardiff on Saturday, then they will continue on to Vienna as part of the European leg of the tour.
A view from inside the Millennium Stadium: Analysis – Newsbeat’s Kat Collins
From Harry’s welsh accent (“Wayuls”) to Liam’s use of the word “Cwtch” (that’s a hug if you’re on this side of the border), it seemed like 1D were keeping the fans in Wales very happy… despite Niall daring to joke about Welsh rugby.
If you’ve ever been to one of their gigs you’ll know at times it’s hard to hear the music over all the screaming and crying and it was no different in Cardiff.
Then of course there were the obligatory flashing headbands, homemade 1D T-shirts and banners.
“Marry me Liam”, said one, while fans from Germany waved a sign asking the band for their towels because they’d left …read more
Source:: BBC Entertainment
