Nick Lachey has revealed that he dreams of being a father.

The star, who split from Jessica Simpson last year, appears to regret that he hasn't had any children of his own yet.

"Obviously, it's not the right time for me to be a father," he told Teen People magazine. "But the one thing I haven't had a chance to do is be a great dad. Playing with my friends' kids and having them call me Uncle Nick - that's life."

He also told fans: "Don't feel sorry for me. I have a great life."