Michelle Keegan is "determined" to spend more time with husband Mark Wright in the New Year.

Michelle Keegan and Mark Wright

Michelle Keegan and Mark Wright

The 30-year-old actress has had a hectic work schedule over the past few months, which has seen her jet to South Africa, Malaysia and Nepal to film 'Our Girl', while her 30-year-old spouse has been in America hosting the entertainment channel 'Extra', and though it has "not been easy" for the couple to spend time with one another, Michelle intends to change that in 2018.

Speaking to The Sunday Mirror newspaper about the couple and their plans for the future, a source said: "Michelle and Mark have spent most of the year apart and it has not been easy. But they are stronger than ever.

"In 2018, Michelle is determined they don't spend as much time away from one another."

Although the pair are across different corners of the globe, they are still very supportive of one another and their careers.

The former 'The Only Way Is Essex' star recently gushed: "Done. 8 months away from home, away from loved ones. @michkeegan you amaze me more & more every day.

"I'm so proud of you, words can't even explain. (sic)."

And Mark has promised when the pair reunite over the festive period it will be the "best Christmas ever".

He continued: "It's going to be the best Christmas ever !! I love you so much my little trooper. (sic)."

But despite their busy schedules, Mark and Michelle - who tied the knot in 2015 - speak "20 times a day" and even meet up in secret.

Speaking previously, Mark said: "We speak 20 times a day.

"We see each other more than people know. I've flown there. She's flown here."