London, Aug 19 (IANS): After courting controversy for a statement made at a concert, One Direction singer Liam Payne has denied being "homophobic".

During the concert, Payne reportedly told the crowd while introducing the song "Girl Almighty": "This is my favorite song off the last album, and it is about trying to find that number one woman of your life, which none of you can relate to, because most of you are girls. Except for the boys in here. You know what I'm talking about."

Following this, when the 21-year-old singer received negative reactions, he tweeted: "Lol think some people take things to literal these days not gunna comment on it any more. You guys know what I meant it was meant in general."

He justified himself, saying he didn't mean to make any homophobic statement, reports aceshowbiz.com.

"I am in no way shape or form homophobic. That's a ridiculous thing to say and I'm not here to offend people, so take it as you will," he added.

However, Payne admitted his mistake. He apologised to people who might have been offended by his statement.

"I'm sorry to those I offended. Really I am but there's no need for some of the things I'm being called. I'm just here to make people smile I kinda consider it my job role."