Was Zayn Malik pushed out of 1 D due to alcohol addiction?

Zayn Malik's departure from One Direction has broke many hearts, but now there are reports that the singer was pushed out of the band.

While initial reports had claimed that the 22-year-old star was departing to get some peace and quiet, sources have now said that Malik was actually given a choice to get sober, or leave the band, Radar Online reported.

An insider close to the band said that the 'Steal My Girl' star's alcohol and drug use became a huge problem, and when he was given the ultimatum, he chose the latter.

Malik had released a joint statement with the band on their Facebook page saying that "I am leaving because I want to be a normal 22-year-old who is able to relax and have some private time out of the spotlight."

The band had responded saying "We're really sad to see Zayn go, but we totally respect his decision and send him all our love for the future."

The announcement came a week after Malik left the band's world tour, however, the rest of the member's will honour their remaining tour dates without him and are still planning to release their 5th studio album later this year.