Kanye claims Timberlake is his rival

Kanye West has revealed that his main musical rival, and therefore inspiration, is Justin Timberlake.

The 'Gold Digger' singer claims that the former N'Sync star is the only musician around that achieves the same levels of respect that he does.

He told XXL magazine: "My biggest inspiration is Justin Timberlake. He's the only person that gets an across-the-board response and respect level - black radio, white radio."

The rap star added: "If Justin hadn't come out and killed the game, I can't say that my album, singles and videos would be on the same level that they're on. We push each other. I look at me and Justin like Prince and Michael Jackson in their day."

West is currently number one in the British singles charts with his latest release 'Stronger'.