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Robbie Williams says he's "jealous" of the career One Direction are currently enjoying.

In an interview with Greg James on Radio 1, Williams said: "I'm jealous of them and I wish I was doing it all with them."

Williams also spoke about wanting to to clear up reports that he didn't like the X Factor group.

"I've met all the boys, but it was a long time ago," he added.

"I am quoted as saying, 'Robbie Williams slammed One Direction. Robbie Williams had a go at One Direction'. I really didn't - I love the boys."

Williams, who joined Take That when he was 16, said: "I'm looking forward to seeing where the road takes them for many years to come I hope.

"They do perform like they've never met each other and there's a certain charm to that too. It's brilliant."

Touring album

Williams became a father for the first time earlier this week (18 September) when his wife Ayda gave birth to their daughter Theodora Rose Williams.

Earlier this month he completed a handful of intimate gigs around the UK - his first solo shows for six years.

He said the chances of him doing more concerts to promote his new album Take The Crown would depend on how the lead single, Candy, is received by the buying public.

"I don't want to emotionally blackmail the whole of the nation but if Candy is not a hit, I'm not touring.

"I'm going to get all beardy and fat again - it's up to you if you want that to happen.

"It sounds like a hit to me but I've been wrong in the past. I've got 6 weeks to wait. I'm in a holding pattern."

The 38-year-old will release his ninth studio album in November.