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One Direction have risked the wrath of generations of Beatles fans by saying that they see similarities between themselves and the rock icons.

The boyband spoke of the two groups' likenessess in a new interview, revealing that they spotted the similarities after watching one of the band's classic films.

"We watched that film of The Beatles when they first touched down in America and we saw a real likeness with our personalities," said Harry Styles in an interview with The Daily Star.

Bandmate Niall Horan was quick to add that the bands' similarities weren't necessarily musical, saying: "They loved having a laugh like us."

The band have previously displayed their rock and roll leanings with cover versions of hits by Oasis and Kings Of Leon.

Meanwhile, a re-release of The Beatles 'Love Me Do' was re-called last week when it was revealed that the version released was one without founding member, Ringo Starr.

Below: previously unseen pics of The Beatles