X Factor couple Rebecca Ferguson and Zayn Malik - from One Direction - have ended their relationship, according to the papers.

The Sunday Mirror reports that Rebecca, who finished runner-up to Matt Cardle in the 2010 series, and Zayn, who finished third as part of the band made the decision to part company for the sake of their careers.

Rebecca has reportedly told friends she is "completely gutted" that their romance is over.

However she added, "I'm happy I've decided to be single - my children, my family and my career are now my world."

A spokesman for Rebecca said, "It's sad but it just wasn't...

X Factor's Rebecca Ferguson, 24, 'dating One Direction teenager Zain Malik'
By Daily Mail Reporter

Last updated at 3:09 PM on 20th March 2011

X Factor runner up Rebecca Ferguson is dating One Direction's Zayn Malik, it has been claimed.
The 24-year-old mother-of-two is said to have grown close to Zayn, 18, during the X Factor tour.
However, bosses are apparently keen to keep the new relationship a secret for now, for fear that it could harm one or both of their careers.

Dating? Rebecca Ferguson and One Direction's Zayn Malik have apparently grown close during the X Factor tour

A source told the News...