One Direction’s Niall Horan has revealed that he has undergone a major surgery, asking fans for privacy as he recovers from it.

After some photos were published of the singer on crutches at London's Heathrow Airport, he took it upon himself to confirm the knee surgery to his fans.

“Hey guys I know most of you have seen those pics today! Yes I've had major knee surgery , a much larger surgery than first anticipated,” he tweeted, adding, But i would like to tell u , it was a complete success ! Considering the scale of it! So all I ask of you guys is that you would respect my privacy as I try to recover and get for the where we are tour!”

According to USA Today, Horan injured his knee back in December, tearing a few ligaments. He will be able to rest at home for a few months before he hits the road again with One Direction for their South American tour. The band will launch the tour in April.

image: ABC