Zayn Malik talks 'butting heads' with Liam Payne in meaningful tribute to 'most qualified' bandmate

Zayn Malik has penned a deeply moving tribute to his former One Direction bandmate, Liam Payne, following his tragic passing.

The world learned of Liam's sudden death on Wednesday night, while the beloved artist was on holiday in Buenos Aires with his girlfriend Kate Cassidy. Tragically, Liam fell from a third floor hotel balcony, with police in Argentina continuing an investigation into the circumstances of his death.

A pivotal member in the one of the world's biggest boybands, One Direction, he soared to fame on The X Factor in 2011 when judge Simon Cowell formed the iconic group with Louis Tomlinson, Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, and Niall Horan. In his tribute, Zayn spoke about Liam as an artist he respected and even though they "butted heads", the star couldn't "explain what l'd give to just give you a hug one last time."

READ MORE: One Direction members ‘devastated’ and will miss Liam Payne ‘terribly’

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Zayn expressed his sorrow: "Liam, I have found myself talking out loud to you, hoping you can hear me, I can't help but think selfishly that there was so many more conversations for us to have in our lives. I never got to thank you for supporting me through some of the most difficult times in my life.

"When I was missing home as a 17 yr old kid you would always be there with a positive outlook and reassuring smile and let me know you were my friend and that I was loved. Even though you were younger than me you were always more sensible than me, you were headstrong, opinionated, and gave no f***s about telling people when they were wrong."

Zayn continued, acknowledging their differences and mutual respect: "Even though we butted heads because of this a few times, I always secretly respected you for it. When it came to the music Liam, you were the most qualified in every sense. I knew nothing in comparison,l was a novice child with no experience and you were already a professional.

"I was always happy to know, no matter what happened on stage we could always rely on you to know which way to steer the ship next. I lost a brother when you left us and can't explain to you what l'd give to just give you a hug one last time and say goodbye to you properly and tell you that I loved and respected you dearly. I will cherish all the memories I have with you in my heart forever, there is no words that justify or explain how I feel right now other than beyond devastated.

"I hope that wherever you are right now you are good and are at peace A and you know how loved you are. Love you bro."