One direction are not at war, says Niall's brother

Aoife Anderson

The older brother of X Factor hopeful Niall Horan has dismissed speculation that there are rifts in the boyband.

Greg Horan (23) says the boys are definitely not engaged in a popularity contest.

Reports this week suggested that the group had fallen out because Harry Styles (16) and Liam Payne (16) are attracting more publicity than the other three members Louis Tomlinson (17), Zayn Malik (17) and Niall (17).

Greg said: "It's absolute nonsense. The boys all get on really well together. They instantly bonded and have become the best of friends. I'm so proud of Niall. He is getting on great. He rang a few times during the week but I don't want to talk to him because I just miss him so much.

"He is loving every second of the experience and the lads are all fantastic. I've met them all twice now and I'm flying over again.

Nervous

"They have a huge amount of respect for each other. They have gelled so well that it's like they have already known each other for 10 years."

The Spar sales assistant will only find out what song his brother's band are singing when they perform live today.

"I get so nervous for Niall because it feels really intense in the studio, but I'm always more nervous than he is.

"It is pretty emotional watching your baby brother up on a big stage like that -- I can't really put it into words what it feels like but I'm bursting with pride.

"I always knew he would be a star. I could never do what Niall does but he got the talent and I got the looks so it's not all bad," he joked.

Niall has been in rehearsals all week with his bandmates and his proud family will be watching as they take to the stage once again.

Niall and rival Mary Byrne are the only two remaining Irish talents in the competition after Dubliner Rebecca Creighton and her girl group Belle Amie were booted off last week.

Niall was chosen with fellow contestants to make up One Direction after failing to make the finals as a solo singer.

The teenage heart throbs are now met with hordes of screaming fans wherever they go. "He was always a hit with girls but now all over the world they are just mad about him," said Greg.

aanderson@herald.ie