Justin Timberlake has denied slamming his ex-girlfriend Britney Spears during his comeback concert at a pre-Super Bowl event following a backlash online.

The SexyBack hit-maker returned to the stage to perform for the first time in five years on the eve of the football championship in New Orleans on Saturday.

He treated fans to a string of his greatest hits, including Cry Me A River, the track he allegedly penned in the wake of his split from Spears in 2002.

Before launching into the song, Timberlake told the crowd, "Sometimes in life, you think you found the one. But then one day you find out that she is just some b**ch!"

The comment sparked outrage among Spears' fans on Twitter.com, with many followers taking aim at Timberlake over his quip.

The star decided to quell the anger by taking to the social networking website to deny his remark was aimed at the pop star, writing, "Ok. I see you. Wouldn't disrespect ANYONE personally. Ever. Relax..."