Liam Payne fans spot touching gesture Zayn Malik made for late singer at gig

Zayn Malik paid a sweet tribute to his late bandmate (Image: WireImage)

Zayn Malik has paid a touching tribute to his late bandmate Liam Payne, who tragically passed away at the age of 31 last month.

Fans noticed the singer, 31, wearing a diamond chain necklace that appeared identical to one Liam had previously worn.

Payne had been seen with three chains of the necklace, sparking speculation that he gifted one to his ex-bandmate, as it was visible under Zayn's partially unbuttoned black shirt at the funeral last Wednesday.

Social media users were quick to point out the emotional gesture. One wrote: “That necklace carries so much history and emotion. A beautiful tribute from Zayn to Liam.”

Another added: “I think he gave one to Niall too. You can see him holding it up in their last selfie together,” referencing a photo of Liam and Niall Horan. Zayn has continued wearing the necklace during his ongoing Stairway to the Sky tour.

Zayn Malik has honoured his former bandmate (Image: Getty)

During a performance at Leeds O2 Academy, the Pillowtalk singer honoured Liam further with a backdrop displaying the words: “Liam Payne 1993-2024. Love you bro,” accompanied by a red heart.

Although the pair has reportedly had a tense relationship over the years including rumours of a backstage altercation, the dad-of-one was said to be "in bits" after hearing of Liam’s passing.

Liam tragically died on October 16 after falling from a third-floor balcony in Buenos Aires. A post-mortem confirmed multiple traumas and severe internal and external hemorrhages as the cause of death.

Liam tragically passed away last month (Image: Getty)

At the time, Malik had previously shared an emotional tribute online, writing on Instagram: “Even though you were younger than me, you were always more sensible,” he wrote. “You were headstrong, opinionated, and gave no f**ks about telling people when they were wrong… Even though we butted heads, I always secretly respected you for it.”

He also praised his bandmate's musical abilities, adding: “When it came to the music, Liam, you were the most qualified in every sense. I was a novice child with no experience, and you were already a professional. No matter what happened on stage, we could always rely on you to steer the ship.

"I will cherish all the memories I have with you in my heart forever," he concluded.