“Joe has always viewed Britney as direct competition to Jessica and Ashlee in the music department, and now that Britney is going through hard times, it’s a little bit like kicking her while she’s down.�?

A source close to Britney Spears says: “Everyone from Britney’s family down to her record label is fuming.�?

In other news, British singer Jamelia has pledged her support for troubled fellow pop star mum Britney Spears.

The Thank You hitmaker appeared at a gig at the weekend wearing a T-shirt bearing the slogan: "Tears for Spears" - and offered heartfelt words of support after her performance.

She said: "As a mum I know all about the pressures of juggling a music career with raising your kids.

"Britney's obviously having a tough time and I hope she pulls it all together.

"I'm sure she can come back stronger than ever."