One Direction have given their two cents on Miley Cyrus's controversial performance at the MTV VMAs.

As previously reported, the 'We Can't Stop' star played live alongside Robin Thicke at the Brooklyn ceremony on Sunday (August 25).

However, Cyrus's suggestive dance moves ignited criticism from large swathes of the public, who thought the singer went too far.

Speaking to Yahoo at their New York film premiere, One Direction shared their thoughts on the performance, which they witnessed from their seats at the event.

Louis Tomlinson said: "I think she was shocked - I don't think she knew she was going to get that much attention."

Harry Styles meanwhile quipped: "She's quite shy and I think it's about time she comes out of her shell."

Liam Payne concluded: "It was nice. It was a very nice performance."