The debate began when Morgan tweeted to his followers that David Beckham should retire from football.
© Ian West/PA Wire/Press Association Images
[One Direction performing on Children in Need]
Morgan said: "No serious top-flight team would sign Beckham for football reasons any more – he should retire gracefully."
Harry Styles responded: "Beckham is my hero."
Morgan quickly replied: "Is that because he always runs in one direction?"
Louis Tomlinson then joined in the row: "I LOVE David Beckham!"
Morgan tweeted back: "Well sign him up for the group - bet he sings better than he plays now."
He then added: "Can't believe I'm currently being sledged about Beckham by TWO members of One Direction. Boy-band types clearly stick together."
© WENN
Styles went to Simon Cowell for help next: "Hiiii @SimonCowell can you tell @piersmorgan to leave us alone please? He's being nasty."
Morgan tweeted to the boys: "Now got roughly 25 million One Directioners abusing me - many thanks @Harry_Styles @Real_Liam_Payne @Louis_Tomlinson."
In retaliation, the boyband tried to get the hashtag #PiersMorganIsSmelly trending worldwide.
Morgan attempted to settle the debate: "So, #PiersMorganIsSmelly is now trending worldwide, is it? Right, @Harry_Styles @Real_Liam_Payne @Louis_Tomlinson - this is WAR.
"Let's settle this on my CNN show when you come to New York - if you're brave enough."
Liam Payne replied: "No hard feelings stinky."
One Direction are currently riding at the top of the American Billboard 200 chart with their album Take Me Home.
Photo gallery - One Direction Take Me Home covers:
Copyright: Syco
