Timberlake denies insulting Britney

Justin Timberlake has denied calling Britney Spears a "b***h".

The 'Suit & Tie' singer reportedly made the inflammatory comment at a pre-Super Bowl concert in New Orleans on Saturday night before singing his 2002 hit, 'Cry Me A River' - which was inspired by his split from Spears - but he has insisted he did not "disrespect" his former girlfriend.

Introducing the song, he allegedly said: "Sometimes in life, you think you found the one. But then one day you find out that she is just some b***h."

After coming under fire for the comment on social networking site Twitter, the 32-year-old star wrote: "Ok. I see you. Wouldn't disrespect ANYONE personally. Ever. #Relax #ItsBritneyBitch I do love that saying though *with accent* #Respect"

Justin - who is now married to actress Jessica Biel - broke off his three-year relationship Britney, 31, in 2002 after she allegedly cheated on him with her then choreographer, Wade Robson.

The singer penned the Grammy Award-winning track about his former flame and the accompanying music video featured a blonde model, who looked strikingly similar to the 'Hold It Against Me' singer.

The star-studded charity gig, which benefited Shriners Hospitals for Children, marked Justin's first concert in five years.

Attendees included Paul McCartney, Sofia Vergara and David Arquette.